TRIBUTES have been paid to Glasgow Labour stalwart Malcolm Cunning, who has died at the age of 65.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar announced Mr Cunning's passing this afternoon on social media, detailing the former councillor's "passion to build a better world". 

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is also among politicians who have expressed sadness at the loss of the former Labour group leader in Glasgow city council.

Mr Sarwar wrote on Twitter: "Sad to share the news that Malcolm Cunning has died. 

"He took me on some of my first trips campaigning as a teen and I remember so clearly his passion to build a better world. 

"He loved Glasgow and he loved our party.

"My thoughts and prayers are with his friends & family."

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "Very sad to hear this news. 

READ MORE: Malcolm Cunning shares his views on how Labour will give Glasgow a bright future

"I first knew Malcolm when he was councillor for the old Strathbungo ward in my constituency. 

"He was a man deeply committed to his party but always courteous on the campaign trail. 

"My condolences to his family and Labour colleagues."

Glasgow city council leader Susan Aitken described Mr Cunning as a "thoughtful and intelligent man" whose loss will be felt in the City Chambers.

She tweeted: "Terribly sad to learn of the death of Bailie Malcolm Cunning 

"A thoughtful, sincere and intelligent man, his political experience will be much missed in the City Chambers.

"My deep condolences to Malcolm’s family especially his son Morgan, of whom he was very proud."

Mr Cunning, a father-of-one, moved from Aberdeenshire to Glasgow and made the city the focus of a long political career.

He represented the Linn ward in Glasgow city council and two years ago took over from Frank McAveety as Labour group leader at the council.

In May this year he moved over for George Redmond to take up the post after the party narrowly failed to retake the council from the SNP.

Mr Cunning was a Glasgow Times columnist and wrote passionately about issues affecting his city.

Labour Councillor Eva Murray said: "There is more I could say in tribute to my friend Malcolm Cunning but today hurts.

READ MORE: Malcolm Cunning says Glasgow needs a fair deal

"I will miss his quips in Council, his tales of Aberdeenshire and his chats.

"I will miss him - we have lost one of the best.

"My thoughts are with Malcolm’s son, sister and all those who loved him." 

Labour councillor Keiran O'Neill added: "Incredibly sad news that Malcolm has passed away this morning. 

"A proud Aberdeenshire man but an even prouder Glaswegian who was witty and wise in equal measure. 

"A good man in every sense of the phrase. 

"Glasgow Labour Group has lost one of our best."

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