Charles Kennedy: memorable quotes from a 'human politician'

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Tributes have begun pouring in for the former Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy, who died at the age of 55 at his home in Scotland.

Described by many as one of the most influential politicians of his generation, Kennedy led his party to its greatest post-war victory and was one of the few high-profile politicians to oppose the invasion of Iraq in 2003.

Kennedy brought a different style of politics to Westminster, says the BBC's Norman Smith. "More informal; relaxed and outgoing; generous to opponents, warm to friends and not one for the more bitter, dark arts of politics."

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Beyond the politics, Kennedy has also been widely praised for his ability to connect with the British people. Jane Merrick, political editor of the Independent on Sunday, said he was "one of few politicians of his generation to cut through to young people" and described him as a "human politician, not a machine".

Here are six memorable quotes from the former Lib Dem leader:

"To be seen to be human, provided you’re doing your job at the same time, is definitely not a negative, not at all."

"Politics is much too serious to be taken too seriously; equally, there are many aspects of it so laughable as to be lamentable."

"I've got my views, people know what they are, they can agree or they can choose to disagree. I'm not going to waste time just rubbishing everybody else."

"There is no more nauseating a sight than politicians pulling up the ladder of opportunity behind them."

"The point never to lose sight of is to be guided by the correct thing, as you see it. It's the only way to approach such profound matters and retain your integrity."

"If you were to describe me as teetotal, on behalf of my constituency I'd have to sue; that would lose me every vote in the Highlands."