Glenn Campbell
Political correspondent, BBC Scotland

He was brilliant on his feet as a debater and indeed in the television studios, whether that was a heavy-weight programme engaging with political opponents and rivals or on a lighter programme format like Have I got news for you.

He was somebody who was listen to when he stood up and spoke in the House of Commons.

It was there in many ways that he built the reputation of himself and his political party, not least in the opposition that the Liberal Democrats led to the war in Iraq.

It was this, and it was after that period, that he led the Liberal Democrats into an election where they gained strength and reached at that point a new high water mark.

Nick Clegg, who stepped down as leader of the Liberal Democrats after the general election, tweets, external: Charles Kennedy was one of the most gifted politicians of a generation, he always spoke with great humour, humility and courage.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon tweets, external: Sad beyond words to hear the news about Charlie Kennedy. A lovely man and one of the most talented politicians of his time. Gone too soon.

A statement released on behalf of Charles Kennedy's family said: "It is with great sadness, and an enormous sense of shock, that we announce the death of Charles Kennedy.

"Charles died at home in Fort William yesterday. He was 55. We are obviously devastated at the loss.

"Charles was a fine man, a talented politician, and a loving father to his young son.

"We ask therefore that the privacy of his family is respected in the coming days."

David Porter
Westminster correspondent

The overwhelming emotions will be one of great surprise, shock and sadness at Westminster. Charles Kennedy was a very popular figure, not just a House of Commons man.

He was one of those people who had great generosity of spirit. That was recognised by political friends and foes alike.

Image source, Jeff J Mitchell

When Charles Kennedy spoke, people tended to listen.

A statement released on behalf of Charles Kennedy's family said it was with great sadness and shock that they announced his death.

The statement went on to say he was a fine man, talented politician and loving father to his young son.

His death it not believed to be suspicious - but the cause has yet to be confirmed.

His family said Mr Kennedy died at his home in Fort William.

Charles Kennedy lost his Ross, Skye and Lochaber seat at Westminster in last month's general election to the SNP's Ian Blackford.

Mr Kennedy had been an MP since 1983 and was leader of the Liberal Democrats between 1999 and 2005.

Former Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy has died.