POLITICAL figures from past and present have been paying tribute to former deputy prime minister John Prescott following his death. 

The politician, who served as Labour MP for Kingston upon Hull East for 40 years and played a key part in Tony Blair's New Labour government, died at the age of 86 after a battle with Alzheimer's.

Lord Prescott was said to have admired Bradford, officially opening the Bingley Bypass in 2004.

Mr Prescott at the opening of the Bingley Relief road in 2004John Prescott at the opening of the Bingley Relief road in 2004 (Image: Paul Bentley) Terry Rooney, former MP for Bradford North between 1990 and 2010, described him as a "one-off" and a "rock-solid genuine guy".

"He was somebody you were better off for knowing. A good friend to Bradford," Mr Rooney said.

"Amongst other things, he gave money and authorisation for the Bingley Bypass which they had been waiting for for around 40 years. That was a pretty big thing for the area.

"John was of his era. He came through with the trade union movement. That's where his roots were. He was always looking out for those less fortunate and what he could do to help.

"Him and Blair were like Morecambe and Wise. They were a class act together. They were better as a partnership than they were as two separate individuals. 

"Whether you were of his beliefs or not. Everyone recognised he was just a genuine guy. He said it like he saw it."

He added: "I don't think there is anybody like John in parliament on either side at the moment.

"He was a one-off, a bit like Dennis Skinner."

John Prescott on a visit to Keighley in 2009 (Image: Bob Smith) Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: "Deeply sad news to hear of John Prescott’s passing. 

"Yorkshire has lost one of its great political heavyweights.

"A true Northerner with unwavering authenticity. 

"John’s record speaks for itself: tackling regional inequalities, fighting for social justice and protecting the environment. 

"We must all now build on his legacy and work tirelessly, as he did, to create a country that works for all."

Naz Shah, MP for Bradford West, said: "John Prescott was a stalwart of the Labour Party.

"A towering figure that will be deeply missed but not forgotten. 

"My prayers and thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time."

Gerry Sutcliffe was MP for Bradford South from 1994 to 2010 and served as parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Sport in Gordon Brown's premiership.

Mr Sutcliffe, who took over from Lord Prescott as the parliamentary football team goalkeeper, said: "It is a sad day.

"He contributed a great deal to life in the UK to make people better if he could. I think he did a great job.

"He was very good to northern MPs when he was deputy prime minister. He helped us with the Bingley Bypass. A great servant to the north.

"He struck that balance between traditional trade union left and New Labour under Tony Blair.

"He played a pivotal role in that he could play both sides and proved to be successful for three elections."