A NUMBER of Ayrshire politicians have paid tribute to former First Minister Alex Salmond following his death over the weekend aged 69.

The former MP and MSP, who led Scotland between 2007 and 2014, became ill while attending an international conference in North Macedonia.

Salmond led the Scottish National Party to power when they won the Scottish Parliament election in 2007, having previously been the party's leader between 1990 and 2000.

He led the pro-independence vote ahead of the referendum in 2014, and resigned after Scottish voters backed remaining in the UK by 55 per cent to 45 per cent.

Politicians from across Ayrshire have now paid tribute to the former First Minister, with one calling him a "giant" of politics. 

Siobhian Brown, MSP for Ayr, said: "To see Alex Salmond and his wife Moira enjoying the Scottish Parliament’s 25th anniversary just a few weeks ago- today’s news has come as a deep shock.

"Alex Salmond’s legacy and contribution to Scottish politics and the Scottish Independence movement put Scottish independence on the radar of the whole world.

"May he rest in peace and be assured that the fight for Scottish independence will continue."

Kenneth Gibson, MSP for Cunninghame North, added: "Like the entire pro-independence movement I was shocked to learn of Alex Salmond’s sudden death earlier today.

"Alex was not only a giant of Scottish politics who bestrode its stage for four decades, he was SNP Leader for 20 years.

"And the First Minister who secured Scotland’s first independence referendum and took us so close to victory.

"Alex’s death will inevitably be felt mostly by his family and my heartfelt condolences go out to them at this very sad time.

"Scotland won’t be the same without him!"

West Scotland MSP Russell Findlay, now leader of the Scottish Conservatives, also paid tribute. 

He said: "I am shocked and saddened to hear of Alex Salmond’s sudden passing.

"No matter our political beliefs, we can all respect his dedication to public service as an MSP, MP, and First Minister of Scotland.

"He will be remembered as a formidable and impressive politician who made a lasting impact on our country.

"The thoughts of everyone in the Scottish Conservative Party are with his family and friends."