THE industry was shocked to learn this morning that RMT’s always-controversial general secretary Bob Crow had died suddenly early today. He was aged 52.

In a brief statement, the RMT said: "It is with the deepest regret that RMT has to confirm that our general secretary Bob Crow sadly passed away in the early hours of this morning.

"RMT would request that all media respect the privacy of the friends and family of Bob Crow at this distressing time."

He was elected general secretary of the RMT in 2002 following the death of former leader Jimmy Knapp.

London Mayor Boris Johnson, with whom he had clashed recently over plans for closing London Overground booking offices and suggestion of operating driverless train, said: "I am shocked. Bob Crow was a fighter and a man of character."

Mr Johnson added: "Whatever our political differences, and there were many, this is tragic news."

"Bob fought tirelessly for his beliefs and for his members.

"There can be absolutely no doubt that he played a big part in the success of the Tube, and he shared my goal to make transport in London an even greater success.

"It's a sad day."

During his tenure as RMT general secretary, Bob Crow had seen his union’s membership double to over 80,000.

Only yesterday, he told BBC Radio 4's PM programme that MPs deserved a pay rise.