SCOTLAND is to remember the late Tony Benn at a celebration of the controversial Labour politician's life and work later this year.

Benn, who was 88, always said Scotland, where his mother was born, held a special place for him and he backed many grassroots campaigns north of the Border.

The event will be held in Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on Sunday, November 30.

The plan is for a series of events through the afternoon culminating in a substantial concert in the evening.

Singer-songwriter Rab Noakes has agreed to be the musical director of the concert which will also feature Chris Difford of Squeeze, folk legend Roy Bailey, Karen Matheson, Donald Shaw, James Grant, Arthur Johnstone, and Alastair McDonald.

Also planned is a spoken word event in the afternoon, along with discussion workshops on topics close to Benn's heart.

Lothian Labour MSP Neil Findlay from the group promoting the event, said: "A number of our major trade unions felt it was important that a campaigner like Tony, who had strong links with Scotland, from UCS up to the present day, should be recognised and remembered here. We're delighted to have the support of the Benn family for the event."

The day is being supported by unions Aslef, GMB, Unison and Unite in Scotland. FairPley, which organised several of Benn's appearances in Scotland in recent years, including last year's Celtic Connections, will produce the show.

Benn died in March this year at home in West London.