Speaking today Jamie said:“ I am deeply saddened by this tragic news which will come as a terrible shock to so many people.“ One cannot think of politics in the Highlands without thinking of Charles Kennedy who through his extraordinary talents and affability with his constituents- for whom he fought many successful battles- reached the highest pinnacle that his party had achieved for many generations.“ The Highlands, and particularly Lochaber, have lost a great champion.“ His loss will be deeply mourned by a great many and my thoughts are with his family and friends.”