FOND FAREWELL: Working-class hero and lifelong CWU member Andy Kerr was given a standing ovation as he made an emotional retiring speech.

Warm tributes were paid to the deputy general secretary and former union president, who famously informed Sir Keir Starmer at a Labour NEC meeting that he would never have his respect.

Mr Kerr said it was absolutely crucial that the union wins the argument on the proposed changes to the Royal Mail’s universal service obligation and against the potential takeover by Czech billionaire investor Daniel Kretinsky, whom he called “just another arsehole” threatening to destroy the service.