We were all very saddened to hear of the death of Lord Frank Judd.

Douglas Chalmers, chief executive at Friends of the Lake District said: “Everyone connected with Friends of the Lake District was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Lord Judd. Frank Judd was a tireless campaigner on behalf of the Lake District’s landscapes, served as our president and was one of our patrons for many years.

“He was a wholehearted supporter of our work in many places and in many ways. He will be sorely missed. We send our deepest condolences to Frank’s wife Chris and his family.”

Frank Judd, Baron Judd of Portsea, was a Patron and former President of Friends of the Lake District, and a passionate supporter of the countryside and protected landscapes.

On national and international stages, he was rightly feted for his dedication to social justice, equality and internationalism. As Labour MP for Portsmouth, he served as Under-Secretary on Naval Affairs in Harold Wilson’s Government and, later, as Minister of Overseas Development, senior Minister of State and Deputy Foreign Secretary under Jim Callaghan, He was also a Director of Oxfam and VSO.

With us, his Presidency took us through a number of major campaigns, including stopping the Whinash wind farm and opposing Government plans to sell off the nation’s forests. Since then, he continued to work tirelessly on behalf of ourselves and Campaign for National Parks, remaining active right up until his death in April.

Whether in the House of Lords, where he was a popular figure with all, attending meetings or contacting those he felt could help him make a difference, Frank spoke with knowledge, passion and energy, often with humour, and always encouraging others.

Frank was ably assisted by his wife Christine, and our thoughts are with her and their daughters.