The devastating loss of Charles Kennedy has affected people of all political colours and none.

The public reaction to his passing illustrates the great achievements that Charles made in his short life. His kind manner and personable approach, combined with his deep convictions for fairness and social justice, transcended politics for a generation and more.

Charles was a political giant of our time, his talent was indisputable.

Charles spent his life in dedication to public service. His record as a local champion and for taking a stance against the Iraq War is well known. I will leave it to others who know more to offer greater insight. I just want to use this moment to say who Charles Kennedy was to me.

Charles was a bold, internationalist Highlander charting a course for new progressive politics. He was an inspiration to a generation of Liberal Democrats, including many of my friends and colleagues.

For me, Charles was the catalyst for my first step into political activism. It was therefore only fitting that he was also the gateway to my first step into political professionalism, and I feel truly privileged to have worked for him.

It is, above all else, his words of encouragement that I will always value and miss so much.

In 2013 I sought the Liberal Democrat nomination for Scottish Parliamentary seat of Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch. Whilst I missed out on selection for the seat, for me it was a great opportunity to learn and develop. But what I will always remember are the kind words Charles said offered me on news of my defeat. “Keep going”, he said. “I have no doubt that in the future there will be a place for you at the top table of politics.” These generous words, and all the encouragement Charles has given to so many others before me show his true kind nature.

Charles inspired me to get into politics, and his inspiration will never leave me. Even in the last few weeks Charles was exhilarated about helping the Liberal Democrat fight back, enthusiastic about reforming the UK and passionate about making the case for Europe. Charles was not finished, and that makes his loss even more tragic. However, his values remain. Fighting for those values – of social justice, of fairness – is how I will chose to remember him.

Most importantly, as I reflect of this sadness I am reminded not only of a great man, but about the loved ones that Charles leaves behind. Loved ones, such as his young son, who meant the world to him. My thoughts are with them.

* David Green is a Scottish Party Executive Member, former President of Liberal Youth Scotland and spent the last year as Press Officer for Charles Kennedy. He is now a Scottish Liberal Democrat list candidate for the 2016 Scottish Parliamentary elections.