Former Reading West MP Sir Anthony Durant dies aged 88

Tributes paid to former Conservative politician

TRIBUTES have been paid to former Conservative politician and MP for Reading West Sir Anthony Durant who has died aged 88.

Sir Anthony was the Member of Parliament for Reading North from 1974 to 1983, becoming MP for Reading West in 1983 after Reading's constituencies were reshuffled, a post he held until his retirement in 1997.

During his time in the Commons, he acted as a Whip and in 1988 he was appointed as the Vice-Chamberlain of the Household.

Better known as Tony Durant he received a knighthood in the New Year's Honours list in 1991.

He was also appointed Life President of Reading West Conservatives.

He retired from politics in April 1997 ahead of the general elections but continued his work as president of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust until his retirement in 2009.

Sir Anthony's wife of 57 years, Audrey, described him as a "great man" adding: "He had a quite considerable career in politics.

"He was never one for sitting or standing still, if he thought he could contribute or help he would do.

"He didn't care about your politics, if you needed help he would do whatever he could."

Reading West MP Alok Sharma said: “Tony was an excellent local MP and many people on the doorstep still recall his time as an MP with fondness.

"He was incredibly supportive when I was selected, back in 2006, to fight the Reading West seat and I will always be grateful for his wise words and advice.

"Tony will be sorely missed by members of the Conservative Party family in Reading and my deepest condolences to his wife Audrey and his whole family.”

Picture Reading West Conservatives