TRIBUTE has been paid by Tynwald to the former MHK and MLC Ray Kniveton who died suddenly last week.

President of Tynwald Claire Christian said Mr Kniveton had made a “significant” contribution to his constituency of Onchan, Tynwald, the House of Keys and the Isle of Man.

She referred, particularly, to Mr Kniveton’s “warm hearted personality” and his ability to work alongside others to serve the community of the Isle of Man, both in his home town of Onchan and for the Island in general.

Ray Kniveton served for many years as a member of Onchan Commissioners before being elected to the House of Keys in 1994. He held that position for four years until being elected to the Legislative Council, a position he retained until 2005.

Mrs Christian added, “Mr Kniveton’s business experience was also brought to bear in a number of departments in which he served and in particular he made a significant contribution in transport.

“He was a man with an affable nature, a good communicator and always true to his strongly held convictions . . he achieved much through consensus and debate.”

Ray Kniveton returned to the board of Onchan Commissioners in 2009 - a position he held until his untimely death last week.

Mrs Christian expressed sympathy to Mr Kniveton’s family and asked members to stand to observe a brief silence in tribute.