Norman Miscampbell, who died in London on Friday aged 81, represented Blackpool North for the Conservatives from 1962 until 1992, making him the longest serving MP in Blackpool's history.

He was reportedly offered a knighthood by Margaret Thatcher but is said to have politely turned it down, saying it would have hindered any kind of normal life following his retirement from the House of Commons.

Mr Miscampbell, a QC and father of four, is survived by his wife, Margaret.

He was elected to represent the old Blackpool North constituency at a by-election and went on to see seven Prime Ministers perform at the ballot box.

Tributes were today paid to him by those who had worked with him, including Lord Peter Blaker the former Conservative MP for Blackpool South.

He said: "I served with Norman for 28 years. He was a very agreeable companion and I much enjoyed his company."

Coun Peter Callow, leader of the Tories on Blackpool Council, said: "He was a man of the people and well respected in the community. We understand he turned down a knighthood and that squared with his views. He didn't seek recognition in any way."

Coun Lily Henderson described Mr Miscampbell as "an absolutely first class MP" who always remembered his old friends in Blackpool.

John Tasselli, a past president of Blackpool North Conservative Association, added: "He was very nice to work with and would always look into people's concerns when they went to his surgeries and he was always very courteous."