Lord Mayhew, a former Tunbridge Wells MP has died aged 86, family have said.

The Conservative Cabinet minister and Tonbridge School alumnus passed away at his home on Saturday following a long illness.

In a statement, family said: "He had lived with cancer and Parkinson's for several years. He worked hard for peace in Northern Ireland."

Patrick Mayhew enjoyed a meteoric political career, rising to become attorney general and Northern-Ireland Secretary in the 1980s and 90s.

He served as MP for Tunbridge Wells from 1974 to 1997 after which he joined the House of Lords.

Friends and colleagues paid tribute to the much loved and respected MP, known for his involvement in helping drive forward the peace process in Ireland.

Tunbridge Wells MP, Greg Clark, tweeted: "Patrick Mayhew, an outstanding MP for Tunbridge Wells, former Sec of State & friend has died. Much loved & respected, will be deeply missed."

William Rutherford, current chairman of the West Kent Conservatives, added: "Sorry to hear of the death of Lord Mayhew. A superb MP for Tunbridge Wells for 23 years and a gentleman of great integrity, charm and wit."