Tony Blair has joined the tributes to former Rossendale and Darwen MP Janet Anderson who died this week describing her as someone 'who got things done'.

The ex-Prime Minister said she was 'a force of nature and a force for good'.

Mrs Anderson was a Labour MP from 1992 to 2010 and served as a government whip and tourism, film and broadcasting minister in his government.

Mr Blair said: "Janet Anderson was a huge support to me as Labour Party leader and as Prime Minister.

"She was hard working, dedicated, loyal and completely unafraid to stand up for what she believed was right.

"When Janet was asked to get something done, you knew it would be done; and whether it was protecting women against stalkers, liberalising the Sunday trading laws but in a way which took account of the demands of shopworkers or in helping pensioners, she was a force of nature and a force for good.

"A wonderful public servant and lovely character. She will be greatly missed.”

Janet's close friend and MP for Hyndburn from 1992 to 2010 Greg Pope said: "Janet was one of the kindest, most generous, funny and committed people I ever met.

"She worked incredibly hard for the people she was elected to represent but did so with immense grace and good humour."

A Labour Party spokesman said: “Desperately sad news that Janet Anderson who was the Member of Parliament for Rossendale and Darwen from 1992 until 2010 has passed away.

"Janet dedicated almost 20 years of her life to serving the people of Lancashire. Her loss will be felt throughout both the community and the Labour movement.

"We send our condolences and best wishes to Janet’s friends and family.”

Mrs Anderson was 73.