SOME of Britain's most senior politicians will be among a 2,000-strong crowd who will pay tribute to Barbara Castle's life at a special meeting.

The former Blackburn MP, who served the town for more than 30 years, died peacefully in her sleep at her Buckinghamshire home on May 2, aged 91.

Lord Taylor of Blackburn stressed that the event at the Central Hall in Westminster was not a service, but a special meeting, which will be chaired by former Labour leader Neil Kinnock.

Prime Minister Tony Blair, Chancellor Gordon Brown, Euro MP Glenys Kinnock, Blackburn MP and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, Lord Taylor and ex-Labour Leader Michael Foot will be speaking.

They will pay tribute to Barbara Castle's life and achievements in front of the hall packed with dignitaries, friends and colleagues.

Lord Taylor said they had considered holding the meeting in a church venue, but that Central Hall had been the seen of many successfully rallies for Barbara Castle.

The meeting, on Tuesday, July 9, starts at 12.30pm.