Posted 25th March 2014 | 2 Comments

Bob Crow takes his last ride

HUNDREDS of trade unionists have crowded the pavements at the entry to an east London cemetery to see the arrival of a horse-drawn hearse bearing RMT union leader Bob Crow to his final resting place.

Mr Crow, who had been general secretary of the RMT for 12 years, died suddenly on 11 March after suffering a major heart attack.

The funeral itself was a private affair for family and close friends, but mourners from around the industries represented by the RMT lined the route of the funeral procession from Woodford to the City of London Cemetery and Crematorium at Manor Park.

Tributes have been paid by national and industry figureheads including the Prime Minister and the Mayor of London as well as many unions. GMB leader Paul Kenny said: "Bob was a remarkable fighter for working people, but he was also passionate about protecting the health and safety of the public, which he never got any credit for.

"He was a funny, witty, interesting man, and the union movement - in fact the whole country - will be a duller place without him."

ASLEF posted a message on its website which read: "Today we mourn the loss of a great railwayman, a great trade unionist, and a great man."

Mr Crow's death will also be remembered on May Day this year.

Reader Comments:

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  • stella george-duebury, london

    Bob Crow was an absolute legend. One of the few people that could stop me in my tracks whenever his name was called, he was on the News or any publication relating to Bob Crow, I would stop what I was doing and take note. He was one of the very few people in the Union movement that actually really stood up for members. He did not just talk but acted. I am an action person also and although it is good to talk, there are limits about how many times you raise an issue with an employer, who continues to ignore you and members. I have family and friends who work in the transport industry and they are all highly respectful of Bob Crow for his hard work, determination and support of his people. There is no other like him, but the GMB General Secretary Paul Kenny is the nearest in terms of fighting for members and I can say that I am proud to be working in a Union that does not give in to Management and the likes just because it is easier than fighting for members. GOD Bless Bob Crow and his family.
    The greatest respect. Stella

  • Jakthe Lad, sutton

    Rest easy Bob,London's Tube will be a poorer place without you