Tributes to Britain's former deputy prime minister John Prescott after his death aged 86

John Prescott was a key part of the New Labour government which swept to power in 1997 with Tony Blair at the helm (PA)

Britain's former deputy prime minister John Prescott has died aged 86 following a battle with Alzheimer’s, with Tony Blair leading tributes to him as a “committed and loyal” public servant.

Mr Prescott’s family, who announced his death, said he had “spent his life trying to improve the lives of others, fighting for social justice and protecting the environment”.