Tribute has been paid to a former Speaker of the House of Keys, who has died.

Jim Cain was an MHK from 1986-96 and also served as a health minister.

Current Speaker Juan Watterson announced the news in the House of Keys on Tuesday.

James Crookall Cain was born in 1927, the son of James Mylchreest Cain - who himself was to become an MHK in 1956 - and Jean Cain (nee Crookall).

King William’s College-educated, Mr Cain attained a commission during National Service with the 1st Battalion of the East Lancashire Regiment, before becoming a chartered accountant with W.H. Walker, which went on to be come PKF.

He became a partner and was chairman of its UK national management committee in 1985-86.

In 1986 he was elected as MHK for Douglas West.

Election

During his 10 years as an MHK he served in the Treasury and had two years as the minister at the Department of Health and Social Security before, following the 1991 general election, becoming Speaker.

He also chaired the public accounts committee.

Mr Cain was married to Muriel and had two daughters.

He was a former chairman of both Hospice Care and the Manx Heritage Foundation, as well as president of the King William’s College Society.

Before inviting MHKs to stand in tribute to Mr Cain, Mr Watterson said: ’I am sure that the House would wish to extend its sympathies to Muriel and to the family at this difficult time.’