Blair, Brown and Starmer Lead Mourners at Funeral of Labour 'Legend' Phil Woolas
Emotional tributes were paid at the funeral of Labour legend Phil Woolas as former Prime Ministers, including Gordon Brown, joined Sir Keir Starmer at St Margaret’s church in Westminster. The former minister, who died from glioblastoma on 14 March aged 66, was remembered by hundreds of former colleagues who packed the historic church to say their final goodbyes.
Co-Adorned Coffin and Heartfelt Tributes
Woolas' coffin was brought into the church adorned with a red shirt from his beloved Manchester United, symbolising his deep-rooted passions. Tributes flowed for the popular Woolas, with tears, laughter, and spontaneous applause echoing through the congregation after his two sons, Josh and Jed, spoke emotionally about their father. Their mother, Tracey, watched with pride as the boys addressed the gathering.
Sir Tony Blair delivered a poignant eulogy, stating: “Phil Woolas was steadfast: he was courageous, he was an innovator and he was a motivator. You always knew where you stood with Phil. He was great fun and great company.” Blair recalled a memorable moment after a poor Prime Minister’s Questions, saying, “There was an array of whisky bottles and Phil said to me: ‘Are you drinking them or are you signing them!’” He added, “Phil was taken from us much too soon, but what can't be taken from us is the spirit he left behind.”
Memorable Moments and Lasting Friendships
Woolas famously kept his cool when confronted on live television by actress Joanna Lumley during a row over the treatment of Gurkha veterans. Despite their clash, they went on to become friends. Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown revealed he had received a letter from Lumley, who described Woolas as “so kind and friendly to me. He was also very funny.” In a witty speech, Brown humorously remarked that Woolas was “absolutely fabulous.”
Defence Secretary John Healey paid tribute, noting: “He was a proud Northerner. He was a leader, a teacher and always Labour. He was a principled politician dedicated to the Labour Party since he was 16—when he first joined.”
Legacy of a Labour Stalwart
Lord Mann reflected on Woolas' character, saying, “Phil never saw himself as better than anyone else. He knew how to listen and observe. He had a photographic memory. Thank you, Phil, for being our friend.” Steve Morgan, a close friend who had known Woolas for almost 50 years, added, “The huge number of people attending today just shows the high regard Phil was held in. He was a true Labour legend, and he will be badly missed by his family, friends and colleagues.”
The funeral served as a powerful reminder of Woolas' impact on British politics and his enduring legacy within the Labour Party, celebrated by figures from across the political spectrum.
