ROBBIE DINWOODIE and JULIA HORTON

THERE was a warmth of affection for John MacDougall in Fife yesterday, a recognition that he had battled for the Kingdom and its causes such as Rosyth Dockyard over the years, and of the personal battle the 60-year-old had faced over an industrial cancer.

Mesothelioma finally claimed him, but Mr MacDougall fought it to the end, even down to accepting innovative treatment. Scottish Secretary Des Browne said: "I was very sad to hear of the death of John MacDougall, and my thoughts are with his wife Cathy and children Julie and Scott at this difficult time.

"John was an excellent MP and will be sadly missed by colleagues of all parties. He was a doughty fighter for the people of Fife over many years, as a trade unionist, long-standing councillor and dedicated Member of Parliament."

Born on December 8, 1947, in Dunfermline, Mr MacDougall started work at the RGC oil rig construction yard at Methil in 1964, becoming a shop steward and then convener of the union. He studied naval architecture and industrial management, becoming a member of the Institute of Industrial Managers.

For 14 years he was full-time at the local authority, where he held various posts including council leader for nine years. He was elected to Parliament as an MP for Central Fife in 2001, taking over the seat from former Scotland First Minister Henry McLeish, also a former Fife Council leader, who stood down as an MP on his election to the Scottish Parliament.

As an MP, he was strongly pro-European with extensive connections in the European Union. He was also vice-president of the Assembly of the European Regions for a time. Helen Eadie, the Labour MSP for Dunfermline East described him as a dedicated and caring politician, whose door was always open to people. She added: "John had above all a caring attitude, but he also had a very good sense of humour and that sense of humour always helped to cut through many difficult political situations."

At Fife Council, where Mr MacDougall served for more than 20 years before going on to become an MP, he was praised for his zeal, bravery and respect for his opponents.

Council leader Peter Grant said: "John gave over a quarter of a century of service to the people of Fife as a councillor and as an MP. He was always ready to argue passionately for what he believed in, but respected the right of others to disagree with him.

"He also went out of his way to acknowledge the work done by councillors of all parties in looking after their constituents. Despite his failing health John showed great courage and determination in continuing to work for the people he represented."

Mr Grant offered his condolences to the family of Mr MacDougall, who served as both leader of Fife Regional Council and later convener of Fife Council. "I know I speak for every-one associated with local government in Fife when I offer my deepest sympathies to Cathy, Scott and Julie and to the rest of John's family," he added.

Conservative MP David Mundell, the shadow Scottish Secretary, said: "John was a kind and decent man who dedicated to the service of the people of Fife, with distinguished service both in Parliament and local government.

"I have greatly admired the way in which he has borne such a debilitating illness with enormous courage. My thoughts are with his family and friends."

Former Liberal Democrat leader Sir Menzies Campbell, the MP for the neighbouring North East Fife, constituency, said: "Both as a councillor and as a Member of Parliament, John MacDougall embodied the best traditions of public service.

"His courageous fight against illness in recent times meant that Parliament was denied his shrewd interventions on so many issues. My sympathy goes to his wife and family."