Tributes to Cardinal Winning

Many hundreds of tributes have been made to Cardinal Thomas Winning in the last few hours. Pope John Paul II said: "Saddened to learn of the sudden death of Cardinal Thomas Joseph Winning, Archbishop of Glasgow, I extend heartfelt condolences and the assurance of my spiritual closeness to the clergy, religious and laity of the Archdiocese and to the Catholic community in Scotland." He said: "This zealous pastor encouraged the communities he served in faith and Christian living, and was particularly outstanding in defence of life and commitment to the poor. "I am confident that his example will inspire all the members of the church in Scotland to grow in their love of Christ and to increase their resolve to serve their brothers and sisters in a spirit of Christian charity." The Queen said she was "saddened" to learn of the cardinal's death. She said: "He made a very distinguished contribution to the Catholic Church in Scotland and to Scottish public life over many years and he will be much missed." Prime Minister Tony Blair was said to be "shocked and saddened to hear of Cardinal Winning's sudden death". A statement issued by Downing Street said of Cardinal Winning: "His strong moral leadership and commitment to social justice were renowned. His energy, commitment and passionate defence of the core values of the Catholic church and faith were recognised by all. He will be greatly missed." Chancellor Gordon Brown, MP for Dunfermline East, said: "Cardinal Winning will be sorely missed. He was a great Scot and a great Christian. "I was proud to know him and his great achievements will be remembered for many years to come. He was a passionate opponent of poverty both in Britain and in the Third World."