Merseytravel vice chairman Jack Spriggs dies at 74

Trade unionist, Labour politician and transport policymaker Cllr Jack Spriggs has died after developing pneumonia.

Merseytravel chairman Cllr Mark Dowd said: "It has been my great privilege and pleasure to have known Jack Spriggs for many years. Jack was a staunch trade unionist and an example to all members of the socialist family and beyond. Jack Spriggs was a very caring and passionate man whose thoughts were always for others whether they be his family or fellow human beings. I shall miss Jack immensely as will many others and my heartfelt condolences go out to Jack's lovely family."

Neil Scales, director general and chief executive of Merseytravel, added: "Jack Spriggs was an immense figure in transport and Liverpool life. A larger than life man with a larger than life personality. His wise counsel stood me in good stead over the last twelve years and I will miss his advice."

Spriggs joined the transport authority in 1992 and served as chairman of the personnel committee from 1993 to 2005. He served on many committees and was Chair of the Merseytravel Advisory Panel Liverpool Division.

Jack Spriggs has been vice chairman of the authority since May 2005 and spokesman on the authority for Liverpool since 1996.