Image source, EPA

More now from the PM's tribute to Alex Salmond - he says that as First Minister of Scotland Salmond "cared deeply about Scotland’s heritage, history, and culture, as well as the communities he represented as MP and MSP over many years of service.

“My thoughts are with those who knew him, his family, and his loved ones. On behalf of the UK government, I offer them our condolences today.”

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has paid tribute to Alex Salmond, calling him a "monumental figure of Scottish and UK politics" who "leaves behind a lasting legacy".

British journalist and broadcaster Andrew Neil has been reflecting on the news of Alex Salmond's death and recalling a recent meeting with him.

"I had lunch with him in London only three weeks ago - an epic lunch as it transpired, as was fitting with Alex - and he was in fine form," he wrote in a post on X.

"Full of plans and plots. He even paid! His upbeat mood then make this all the more surprising and sad.

"He and I could not have been more different in terms of Scotland’s position in the UK but we had a mutual respect and he knew I always regarded him as the most accomplished and significant Scottish politician of modern times.

"He was also the best of company. To be with him was always a joy. I will miss him hugely. So will Scotland.

"My condolences to his wonderful wife."

Image source, Reuters

Conservative leader Rishi Sunak has been sharing a tribute to Alex Salmond on X.

He said: "Alex Salmond was a huge figure in our politics. While I disagreed with him on the constitutional question, there was no denying his skill in debate or his passion for politics. May he rest in peace."

Salmond's reputation as a political heavyweight ensured he was a high-profile politician across the UK long before he won Holyrood's top jo as First Minister.

Former Conservative cabinet member Michael Portillo once described him as the only Scottish politician to become well known in England and internationally while spending most of his career in Scottish politics.

"I regard him as the outstanding politician not to have come out of Scotland, but to have remained in Scotland," he said.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has tweeted his condolences after the death.

Paying tribute, he said: "The sad news of Alex Salmond's passing today will come as a shock to all who knew him in Scotland, across the UK and beyond.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time and on behalf of Scottish Labour I offer our sincere condolences to all who will be mourning his loss.

"Alex was a central figure in politics for over three decades and his contribution to the Scottish political landscape can not be overstated.

"It is right that we recognise Alex's service to our country as First Minister and to the communities he represented as both MP and MSP."

We are learning that the former MP and MSP was taken ill after giving a speech in North Macedonia.

Good afternoon and welcome to our coverage of the breaking news that former SNP leader Alex Salmond has died.

Stay with us as we bring you the latest news and the reaction to his death.