Reaction to death of Charles Kennedy

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Former Labour strategist Alastair Campbell says he never felt Mr Kennedy was "truly on top" of his alcohol problem.

Quote Message: He did take a long time to confront it. I think that because I'd had my own problems with alcohol I think I may have been one of the first people that he came to, and I can remember we went for a walk in his constituency and he said 'look, you know what, I think I do have a problem'... I do think if Charles had maybe confronted it earlier he might have ended up with a happier existence."

He did take a long time to confront it. I think that because I'd had my own problems with alcohol I think I may have been one of the first people that he came to, and I can remember we went for a walk in his constituency and he said 'look, you know what, I think I do have a problem'... I do think if Charles had maybe confronted it earlier he might have ended up with a happier existence."

Alastair Campbell says losing his seat in Parliament last month was a "devastating blow" for Mr Kennedy - "even though he'd prepared for it". He adds:

Quote Message: He was sending me text messages galore in the last few days where he was sending me the ever-narrowing odds on the SNP taking his seat and by the time it was three to one on he basically said 'look I'm a gonner'. But he did say 'health is fine'... that was our little code to say that he wasn't drinking."

He was sending me text messages galore in the last few days where he was sending me the ever-narrowing odds on the SNP taking his seat and by the time it was three to one on he basically said 'look I'm a gonner'. But he did say 'health is fine'... that was our little code to say that he wasn't drinking."

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Quote Message: Charles had immense courage, huge charisma, but it all rested on a deep set of values and beliefs. I think we've lost not just a remarkable man, who might have become one of the outstanding politicians of the whole century, but even more I think we're looking at somebody who would have been crucial to the two great issues facing the United Kingdom at the present time. One being whether it can remain united, and Charles was a strongly pro-Union believer, and secondly whether united it can also play a huge part in Europe, because Charles again was a great supporter of the European Union. from Baroness Williams Lib Dem peer

Charles had immense courage, huge charisma, but it all rested on a deep set of values and beliefs. I think we've lost not just a remarkable man, who might have become one of the outstanding politicians of the whole century, but even more I think we're looking at somebody who would have been crucial to the two great issues facing the United Kingdom at the present time. One being whether it can remain united, and Charles was a strongly pro-Union believer, and secondly whether united it can also play a huge part in Europe, because Charles again was a great supporter of the European Union.

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Quote Message: We're absolutely devastated here. The Highlands, Scotland, the UK has lost one of the greats today. Charles was enthusiastic after the general election process. He was enthusiastic about bringing more powers to Scotland and the Highlands, to take part in the European referendum that's coming up, and also rebuilding the Liberal Democrats. So, 55, very young, he had a lot left in him. from David Green Former adviser to Charles Kennedy

We're absolutely devastated here. The Highlands, Scotland, the UK has lost one of the greats today. Charles was enthusiastic after the general election process. He was enthusiastic about bringing more powers to Scotland and the Highlands, to take part in the European referendum that's coming up, and also rebuilding the Liberal Democrats. So, 55, very young, he had a lot left in him.

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Glasgow University has published pictures of Charles Kennedy both as a student and in later life.

To see the pictures, click here.

Private Eye editor Ian Hislop, who appeared on Have I Got News for You with Mr Kennedy, said he was the first of his kind.

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Quote Message: Charles could not only make jokes, he could take a joke. He was incredibly self-deprecating. He really appreciated jokes about politics, about himself. He was unique at the time, in the early days of Have I Got News for You; he was a real star. This is pre the supposed opening up of politics to normal life. People were quite sneery about it. It was all 'there's Chatshow Charlie'. But actually his directness and sense of humour and sense of fun made him accessible.

Charles could not only make jokes, he could take a joke. He was incredibly self-deprecating. He really appreciated jokes about politics, about himself. He was unique at the time, in the early days of Have I Got News for You; he was a real star. This is pre the supposed opening up of politics to normal life. People were quite sneery about it. It was all 'there's Chatshow Charlie'. But actually his directness and sense of humour and sense of fun made him accessible.

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The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, says:

Quote Message: Charles Kennedy reminded us of the continuing importance of being able to rely on a body of principle by which our plans and actions can be both motivated and judged. This body of principle and his determination to uphold the rule of law, both at home and internationally, gave great encouragement to many of us who opposed the Iraq war. Describing himself as a 'wee crofter' hid a steeliness of a man who led and inspired others by his sheer humanity."

Charles Kennedy reminded us of the continuing importance of being able to rely on a body of principle by which our plans and actions can be both motivated and judged. This body of principle and his determination to uphold the rule of law, both at home and internationally, gave great encouragement to many of us who opposed the Iraq war. Describing himself as a 'wee crofter' hid a steeliness of a man who led and inspired others by his sheer humanity."

Former Lib Dem chief executive Lord Rennard says:

Quote Message: Sad is far too small and far too insignificant a word to express today’s feelings. You need to study Shakespeare to understand the real meaning of tragedy in today’s news. Our thoughts are very much with his family and his young son Donald. ‘CK’, as he was often known, was one of remarkably few people in politics who would find appropriate, but sometimes unusual words, to understand and express peoples’ emotions. Many of us will struggle to do that now.”

Sad is far too small and far too insignificant a word to express today’s feelings. You need to study Shakespeare to understand the real meaning of tragedy in today’s news. Our thoughts are very much with his family and his young son Donald. ‘CK’, as he was often known, was one of remarkably few people in politics who would find appropriate, but sometimes unusual words, to understand and express peoples’ emotions. Many of us will struggle to do that now.”

Charles Kennedy made several appearances on the satirical news quiz Have I Got News for You - both as a panellist and a host. Here are some of the highlights . 

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Mr Kennedy was a "joker" at school and will be remembered for "all the good things" he did, according to people who have spoken to the BBC in his hometown of Fort William.

Click here for more local reaction.

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"We've discussed the risks Charles Kennedy took with his health quite often - a tale of a large political figure who marked himself out by his rare and authentic depiction of a normal human being". Memories of Charles Kennedy from the BBC's John Pienaar.

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Quote Message: What I'll remember about Charles is someone who was great fun to be with. Even in the darker moments, Charles would brighten things up. But he was also a man who took his politics very seriously. He thought things through. People have been talking today about the very principled stand he took over opposing the war in Iraq. Charles didn't do that out of any kind of media opportunism, he did it because he'd weighed up the arguments. from Lord Wallace Lib Dem leader in the House of Lords

What I'll remember about Charles is someone who was great fun to be with. Even in the darker moments, Charles would brighten things up. But he was also a man who took his politics very seriously. He thought things through. People have been talking today about the very principled stand he took over opposing the war in Iraq. Charles didn't do that out of any kind of media opportunism, he did it because he'd weighed up the arguments.

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People in the Highland town of Fort William have paid tribute to Mr Kennedy, who died at his home there on Monday.

"Like the rest of the country I am just stunned,” said Flora McKee, who went to school with Mr Kennedy. "Charles was a typical Lochaber person, and you will find that a lot of Lochaber people are quiet and unassuming, going about their ways."

Drew Purdon, former chairman of Lochaber District Council, said: "We can't quite grasp it or come to terms with it yet. It's totally unexpected and without a shadow of a doubt a great loss to the community."

The Daily Politics looks back at the political career of Charles Kennedy, who made many appearances with Andrew Neil on his late-night programme This Week.

Reporter Adam Fleming looks at some career highlights of the former Lib Dem MP and leader who died at his Fort William home on Monday. Watch the film

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Mr Kennedy was dubbed “chatshow Charlie” for his appearances on Have I Got News For You.

The show’s executive producer, Richard Wilson, says Mr Kennedy’s honesty made him one of the programme's most popular signings.

"Charles Kennedy was one of the few politicians prepared to appear on Have I Got News For You and show himself as he really was," he says.

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Professor John Curtice says he doubts Charles Kennedy's election loss would have come as a surprise to him as "it was quite clear" from the polls that he was at risk of losing to the SNP.

Reflecting on his career, the politics professor says Mr Kennedy was willing "to take risks and stand on his own", something, he says, which "very clearly marked the leadership of his party".

Two of the "distinctive decisions" he made as Lib Dem leader was to reject what he saw as New Labour's move away from "progressive politics" and to oppose the 2003 Iraq War, which was "not an easy decision to make" but one which hindsight "has justified", he says.

Quote Message: Charles Kennedy went against the time, took risks and his party profited from them."

Charles Kennedy went against the time, took risks and his party profited from them."

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Lib Dem peer Baroness Williams says she once thought Mr Kennedy "might one day be one of the best prime ministers” ever to lead the UK.

"We have seen a great man go, a really, truly, great man," she says.

Speaking about his alcoholism, she adds:

Quote Message: You could never be quite sure he would show up on a particular great occasion; you were always living with uncertainty, always wondering if he was going to be there. There were occasions where he didn't come at all or he came but he was not really in a fit state to deal with the issues that he was trying to talk about. But he was so wonderful when he did get there that you forgave almost everything."

You could never be quite sure he would show up on a particular great occasion; you were always living with uncertainty, always wondering if he was going to be there. There were occasions where he didn't come at all or he came but he was not really in a fit state to deal with the issues that he was trying to talk about. But he was so wonderful when he did get there that you forgave almost everything."

Sir Menzies Campbell has paid tribute to Charles Kennedy, whom he succeeded as party leader.

He described Mr Kennedy as a plain speaker, good companion, gregarious, good fun and someone who liked to gossip, and added that he never undermined his successor, or went out of his way to damage the coalition.

Sir Menzies told Jo Coburn that "relations between himself and myself were a bit cool to begin with", but later "we restored the warm and friendly relationship which we had had".

And he added: "He accepted the rule of former leaders, which is to be seen often, and to be heard very rarely, and he was throughout a complete and absolute loyalist to the party.” Watch the interview

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SNP MP Alex Salmond says he does not believe Charles Kennedy’s “heart” was in the Better Together campaign against Scottish independence.

Mr Kennedy campaigned for a No vote, but Mr Salmond says: "His heart would have been in a pro-European campaign - that's the campaign that Charles would have engaged in heart and soul."

He also says Mr Kennedy was "an interesting, complex character, but above all an outstanding communicator and a fine human being".

Another Liberal Democrat has paid tribute to Charles Kennedy, who has died at the age of 55. Dick Newby, the Lib Dem chief whip in the House of Lords, said he was "the most naturally gifted politician I’ve ever worked with".

Quote Message: He instinctively knew where he stood on the big issues. He was immensely generous-spirited in both his politics and his broader approach to life. I am proud to have worked closely with him."

He instinctively knew where he stood on the big issues. He was immensely generous-spirited in both his politics and his broader approach to life. I am proud to have worked closely with him."

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Scottish Lib Dem leader Willie Rennie reveals that he "shed a few tears this morning", and says the "outpouring of emotion from across the political spectrum and way beyond politics" is "really touching". The MSP says he is privileged to have known and worked for Mr Kennedy, adding: "He was quite a remarkable man."

How badly did his election loss hit him? "He took it in his stride," Mr Rennie says, as he "never presumed" anything. He says he joined Mr Kennedy on the campaign trail and he was working "as hard as ever" to win.

Jim Wallace, the Lib Dem leader in the House of Lords, has paid tribute to Charles Kennedy, whom he described as "a hugely gifted and principled man with a common touch".

"He was one of my oldest and closest friends in politics," he said, recalling how they entered the House of Commons "on the same day in 1983, representing Highlands & Islands seats".

Quote Message: "I have just so many memories of him, but what I will probably remember most were his instinctive humanity, his infectious good humour and his determined, even stubborn commitment to the principles and the values he believed in. Above all, he had a way of communicating his message in a down-to-earth human way which was second to none among his contemporaries."

"I have just so many memories of him, but what I will probably remember most were his instinctive humanity, his infectious good humour and his determined, even stubborn commitment to the principles and the values he believed in. Above all, he had a way of communicating his message in a down-to-earth human way which was second to none among his contemporaries."

We're familiar with pictures of Charles Kennedy on the Westminster political circuit, but Glasgow University has released a series of charming pictures from his student days  - when his political career began - including the then young man taking part in "custard throwing" for charity.

From his birth in Inverness and growing up in a remote crofter's cottage in the Highlands, to electoral defeat in 2015.

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Quote Message: Charles Kennedy was a man of paradox. He was a career politician who managed somehow to transcend politics and appeal beyond his party, beyond Westminster. He was also a man whose day-to-day leadership could be chaotic, yet when it came to the big issues like Iraq he was incredibly decisive. He was a man who was known to be gregarious and witty but at the same time in private was very shy at times. Above all, he will be remembered not for the chat shows, for the fun and games he provided to Westminster, but for the fact he brought his party to its largest electoral success in the post-war era.

Charles Kennedy was a man of paradox. He was a career politician who managed somehow to transcend politics and appeal beyond his party, beyond Westminster. He was also a man whose day-to-day leadership could be chaotic, yet when it came to the big issues like Iraq he was incredibly decisive. He was a man who was known to be gregarious and witty but at the same time in private was very shy at times. Above all, he will be remembered not for the chat shows, for the fun and games he provided to Westminster, but for the fact he brought his party to its largest electoral success in the post-war era.

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Former Labour spin doctor Alastair Campbell says Charles Kennedy was one of the rare politicians that managed to "cut through" to the public and be both "popular and authentic". He also led the party to "a pretty successful position", he adds.

Mr Campbell says the former Lib Dem leader was principled, funny, engaging and clever. But he was also "complicated", he adds, saying they forged a friendship "in part through shared issues with alcohol".

Quote Message: He had his problems but let's remember there was a lot more to him than his story with alcohol."

He had his problems but let's remember there was a lot more to him than his story with alcohol."

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Charles Kennedy was uncomfortable with the party's decision to go into government with the Conservatives. Sir Menzies says the former Lib Dem leader, as a centre-left politician, "wasn't willing to compromise" - which, he says, he admired and respected. Mr Kennedy was "slightly on the periphery" during the coalition years, but had he been re-elected last month "he would certainly have been re-energised", he adds.

Quote Message: He was a fine parliamentarian but a man for whom principle was everything. He was a Highland gentleman, but never a nationalist."

He was a fine parliamentarian but a man for whom principle was everything. He was a Highland gentleman, but never a nationalist."

Mike Molloy:

Email Message: A massive loss and someone who will always be an inspiration for young people who want to enter politics. He never lost his human decency or human touch or ability to connect with people. I worked for another party and yet in all our encounters he was never anything but a true gentleman, funny, decent and kind. He will remain an inspiration for any young person who wants to make a difference in public life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, colleagues and anyone who was lucky enough to have met Charles.

A massive loss and someone who will always be an inspiration for young people who want to enter politics. He never lost his human decency or human touch or ability to connect with people. I worked for another party and yet in all our encounters he was never anything but a true gentleman, funny, decent and kind. He will remain an inspiration for any young person who wants to make a difference in public life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, colleagues and anyone who was lucky enough to have met Charles.

Reflecting on his style of leadership, Sir Menzies says Mr Kennedy didn't rule by diktat or force policy down people's throat, "but he would argue the case, so rationally". He says he had a strategic sense of where the party should sit in the spectrum of UK politics.

"You couldn't fall out with Charles Kennedy, not that I ever tried," he adds, and praises his communication skills - both with the public and colleagues.

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Here are some of his opinions:

"There is genuine public perception that we are being bulldozed into a war not of our choosing and not - on the basis of the evidence so far - vital to national interests."  (on the Iraq War, 2003)

"It's serious for yourself and it's serious for those around you. I've sought professional help and I believe today that this issue is essentially resolved." (on his drink problem, 2006)

"Certainly, they drive a strategic coach and horses through the long-nurtured 'realignment of the centre-left' to which leaders in the Liberal tradition, this one included, have all subscribed since the Jo Grimond era." (on the coalition, 2010)

Sir Menzies Campbell, former leader of the Liberal Democrats, says he believes Mr Kennedy's opposition to the Iraq war was "his finest hour", saying it was a "courageous" decision to take, as he went up against opposition parties and some within the Lib Dems who supported military action.

Quote Message: Nevertheless, his courage triumphed and he took the party into a position of outright opposition... I think people will remember him for that more than anything else."

Nevertheless, his courage triumphed and he took the party into a position of outright opposition... I think people will remember him for that more than anything else."

"As a lyrical Highlander, blessed with down-to-earth charm and a way of expressing deeply held principles in a manner refreshingly free of sanctimony, his gift was the one most politicians want. He had a natural ability for making himself popular," writes political journalist Iain Martin of Charles Kennedy, in the London Evening Standard.

He says the former Liberal Democrat leader was "a good man, gone way too early".

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As Lib Dem leader, Charles Kennedy took his party to their best ever election result in 2005 but, battling a drink problem, had to resign a few months later. Here is a look back at the life and careerof one of the most influential politicians of his generation.

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Quote Message: He was a passionate Highlander. I grew up in the next constituency which was about 100 miles away. I first met him when I was 16. He had been elected the year before as an MP and that was an incredible inspiration to me as a young girl growing up in the Highlands. from Caron Lindsey Editor, Lib Dem Voice blog

He was a passionate Highlander. I grew up in the next constituency which was about 100 miles away. I first met him when I was 16. He had been elected the year before as an MP and that was an incredible inspiration to me as a young girl growing up in the Highlands.

Elaine McCall:

Email Message: Charles Kennedy was one of the best and I voted for him not the party not the country but a man I trusted to do right by me. Like him a great number of hard working Scottish MPs lost their seats at the election and I wonder if the Scottish people should consider the path they follow and their reasons for doing it. Charles will always be in my thoughts.

Charles Kennedy was one of the best and I voted for him not the party not the country but a man I trusted to do right by me. Like him a great number of hard working Scottish MPs lost their seats at the election and I wonder if the Scottish people should consider the path they follow and their reasons for doing it. Charles will always be in my thoughts.

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People in Charles Kennedy's former constituency of Ross, Skye and Lochaber have been speaking to BBC Radio 5 live about him. One says he was "very friendly and warm - typical West Highlander".

To listen, click here.

Jackie Barker: 

SMS Message: Unaffiliated to any party but close to tears since hearing the news today. An enormous loss to ALL of us. Charles Kennedy was the best politician of our times. Our public servants should look to his principles, integrity, humility and honesty. Lib Dems should take on his legacy - his beliefs, values and utter dedication - it might just help them succeed. Thank you Charles for all you stood for. Deepest sympathy to his family and those lucky enough to have known him.

Unaffiliated to any party but close to tears since hearing the news today. An enormous loss to ALL of us. Charles Kennedy was the best politician of our times. Our public servants should look to his principles, integrity, humility and honesty. Lib Dems should take on his legacy - his beliefs, values and utter dedication - it might just help them succeed. Thank you Charles for all you stood for. Deepest sympathy to his family and those lucky enough to have known him.

Shadow health secretary Andy Burnham tells the House of Commons:

Quote Message: I can't have been the only person wondering this morning why politics always seems to lose the people it needs most. Charles was warm, generous, genuine and principled. We will miss him greatly and we send our love and our deepest sympathy to his family."

I can't have been the only person wondering this morning why politics always seems to lose the people it needs most. Charles was warm, generous, genuine and principled. We will miss him greatly and we send our love and our deepest sympathy to his family."

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Quote Message: He was a man of conviction, of principle, of passion, but above all he was a very decent human being because whatever the convictions and principles and passions he had he never allowed it to be expressed in vitriol or vindictiveness or personal animosity. I think that's why people, not just in Westminster, but throughout the country, were attracted to Charles Kennedy. from Lord Reid Labour former Home Secretary

He was a man of conviction, of principle, of passion, but above all he was a very decent human being because whatever the convictions and principles and passions he had he never allowed it to be expressed in vitriol or vindictiveness or personal animosity. I think that's why people, not just in Westminster, but throughout the country, were attracted to Charles Kennedy.

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Acting Labour leader Harriet Harman says:

Quote Message: It was always worth listening to him and, you know, sometimes he was right and I was wrong. I mean, like for example on the war in Iraq... if you look back, the judgements he made, they were made out of a deep sense of progressive commitment and a real fierce intelligence which was not just about this country but about the world."

It was always worth listening to him and, you know, sometimes he was right and I was wrong. I mean, like for example on the war in Iraq... if you look back, the judgements he made, they were made out of a deep sense of progressive commitment and a real fierce intelligence which was not just about this country but about the world."

Linda Birchall: 

SMS Message: Charles Kennedy should receive a royal award as an exceptional parliamentarian as it is obvious he devoted his entire life to public service in a unique way and always put the people first.

Charles Kennedy should receive a royal award as an exceptional parliamentarian as it is obvious he devoted his entire life to public service in a unique way and always put the people first.

George Ashton:

Email Message: Shocked and saddened to learn about the passing of Charles Kennedy. He represented our area in the Highlands so well over the years. He will be greatly missed by many.

Shocked and saddened to learn about the passing of Charles Kennedy. He represented our area in the Highlands so well over the years. He will be greatly missed by many.

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Former Lib Dem deputy leader Simon Hughes says:

Quote Message: Charles remained a star in the political firmament all the time from his first election in 1983. From 1983 to 2015 together in the House of Commons and around the country, I saw a friend and colleague who never wavered in his principles, never wavered in his determination and never wavered in his generous friendships. Liberal Democrat opposition to the Iraq war was led by Charles and united millions in the country behind him.”

Charles remained a star in the political firmament all the time from his first election in 1983. From 1983 to 2015 together in the House of Commons and around the country, I saw a friend and colleague who never wavered in his principles, never wavered in his determination and never wavered in his generous friendships. Liberal Democrat opposition to the Iraq war was led by Charles and united millions in the country behind him.”

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Quote Message: He is being spoken of in the fondest terms right across the political spectrum. Our politics in this country is adversarial but Charles Kennedy was someone who simply didn't go down that road. He believed in reason and rationality, and he also believed in principle. That's why he was popular throughout the whole of the House of Commons. from Sir Menzies Campbell Former Lib Dem leader

He is being spoken of in the fondest terms right across the political spectrum. Our politics in this country is adversarial but Charles Kennedy was someone who simply didn't go down that road. He believed in reason and rationality, and he also believed in principle. That's why he was popular throughout the whole of the House of Commons.

Conservative MP James Gray tells the House of Commons he stood against Mr Kennedy in 1992 and would take the opportunity on Wednesday - when MPs will pay tribute to the former Lib Dem leader - to remember "what a very happy occasion it was and how very glad I was to lose to Charles at that election".

BBC News website reader:

SMS Message: I was absolutely gutted when watching the news this morning. I just wish all politicians were as honest as him and wore their heart on their sleeves. Such a sad loss. R.I.P #chatshowcharlie.

I was absolutely gutted when watching the news this morning. I just wish all politicians were as honest as him and wore their heart on their sleeves. Such a sad loss. R.I.P #chatshowcharlie.

BBC News website reader:

SMS Message: The world is a poorer place this morning with the loss of a man who reasserted the definition of politics as something every one of us can be a part of.

The world is a poorer place this morning with the loss of a man who reasserted the definition of politics as something every one of us can be a part of.

Alastair Campbell says Mr Kennedy knew the SNP were an "unstoppable force" in May's election, and was sending him messages the day before the vote to show how the bookmakers' odds on him winning his seat were "narrowing".

But he says Mr Kennedy "accepted" his defeat and was "already talking about what he could do in the future".

Sir Menzies Campbell has acknowledged that relations between himself and Charles Kennedy were a "bit cool" after Mr Kennedy was ousted as leader in 2006 but insisted it was right for the party that he stepped down at the time. However, he tells the BBC's Daily Politics that "warm and friendly" relations were soon restored. He also says that despite Charles Kennedy's misgivings about the coalition he remained "absolutely loyal" to the party, adding that he was "often seen but rarely heard" during the Lib Dems' five years in government. 

"He was someone who was genuinely liked by politicians on all sides. I'm struck by how many of the tributes are from the era of the Iraq War. That is because that was a defining moment for Charles Kennedy, because it underlined the extent to which he was at heart a conviction politician. That may sound strange, because most people have seen his relaxed, jovial, humorous demeanour, but he was a man who believed passionately in some fundamental core beliefs. That was shown most starkly during the Iraq War because he alone, really, stood out against the rush to war."

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Former Labour strategist Alastair Campbell says: "Charles had a real struggle with alcohol. Sometimes he beat it, sometimes he didn't."

Mr Campbell says Mr Kennedy handled his alcoholism "in his own way, incredibly well".

"This is not about demons - it's a disease," he adds.

BBC News website reader:

SMS Message: Absolutely absolutely shocked. It is one of the worst losses ever. He was one of the best leaders I have known.

Absolutely absolutely shocked. It is one of the worst losses ever. He was one of the best leaders I have known.

BBC News website reader:

SMS Message: There is going to be a large void wherever Charles was, a great man father and politician. A true man for the people.

There is going to be a large void wherever Charles was, a great man father and politician. A true man for the people.

Professor James Raven from Cambridge was a member of the Lib Dems since 1975 and says he was honoured to call Charles Kennedy a friend:

Quote Message: The death of Charles Kennedy is a devastating loss for British politics. It's a tremendous shock. A man of the greatest integrity, he advanced the cause of social justice and liberalism with immense thoughtfulness and determination. He combined enormous personal charm with huge and self-deprecating abilities. He was so effective because he was so passionate and warm. I first knew him as a very young MP in 1983 and we campaigned together through the 90s and three general elections. I was honoured to call him my friend and have treasured memories of his personal and generous support. He was an immensely gifted leader. I suggested he took a sabbatical to overcome his problems. I think the party would have accepted that. I regret he stood down. In private he was quite a shy man. He was a good friend to people. He was a very proud highlander. He will be missed by everyone who cared for the future of this country.

The death of Charles Kennedy is a devastating loss for British politics. It's a tremendous shock. A man of the greatest integrity, he advanced the cause of social justice and liberalism with immense thoughtfulness and determination. He combined enormous personal charm with huge and self-deprecating abilities. He was so effective because he was so passionate and warm. I first knew him as a very young MP in 1983 and we campaigned together through the 90s and three general elections. I was honoured to call him my friend and have treasured memories of his personal and generous support. He was an immensely gifted leader. I suggested he took a sabbatical to overcome his problems. I think the party would have accepted that. I regret he stood down. In private he was quite a shy man. He was a good friend to people. He was a very proud highlander. He will be missed by everyone who cared for the future of this country.

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News has emerged of the death of former Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy.

Mr Kennedy, 55, died at his home in Fort William on Monday. Police said the death was "sudden" but there were "no suspicious circumstances". No cause of death has been given.

His family said they were devastated to lose a "fine man and loving father".

BBC News website reader:

SMS Message: All these comments & tributes for Charles Kennedy. It's a pity they were not made while he was alive. He would have probably greatly appreciated the encouragement.

All these comments & tributes for Charles Kennedy. It's a pity they were not made while he was alive. He would have probably greatly appreciated the encouragement.

BBC News website reader:

SMS Message: Charles Kennedy will be missed - a unique character - a politician who balanced his strong beliefs with a sense of humility seldom seen in politics - today's outpouring of support says it all.

Charles Kennedy will be missed - a unique character - a politician who balanced his strong beliefs with a sense of humility seldom seen in politics - today's outpouring of support says it all.

Time will be set aside after Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons on Wednesday for further tributes to Mr Kennedy, Speaker John Bercow announces. 

Donna from Edinburgh:

Quote Message: Charles Kennedy was a down-to-earth guy, great politician and brilliant leader for his party, heartfelt sympathies go out to his wife, son, parents and his family.

Charles Kennedy was a down-to-earth guy, great politician and brilliant leader for his party, heartfelt sympathies go out to his wife, son, parents and his family.

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Prime Minister David Cameron says: "It's a tragic loss for Charles's family and my heart goes out to them. It's also a tragic loss for politics and public life. He was someone of immense ability and it's not that often in politics that someone comes along with brains, talent, wit and bags of humanity, and Charles had all of those things. He achieved so much, so young, and he's been taken from us far too soon.

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House of Commons Speaker John Bercow says Mr Kennedy was a "principled, progressive and passionate" politician.

Quote Message: In an age of pervasive cynicism about politics and politicians, Charles had that rare and uncanny capacity to cut through to large numbers of voters of all political persuasions and of none right across the country. He was doubtless assisted in that by his obvious sincerity, his relaxed style and his geniality."

In an age of pervasive cynicism about politics and politicians, Charles had that rare and uncanny capacity to cut through to large numbers of voters of all political persuasions and of none right across the country. He was doubtless assisted in that by his obvious sincerity, his relaxed style and his geniality."

The Daily Politics will hear from former Liberal Democrat leader Sir Menzies Campbell about the death of Charles Kennedy. Reporter Craig Anderson will be at the Lib Dem constituency HQ in Dingwall, while Lord Razzall, who ran both the general elections which Mr Kennedy fought as Lib Dem leader, and Greg Hurst, who has written a biography of him, are also guests on Tuesday’s programme, from 12:00 BST.

In other news, Humza Yousaf, the Scottish Government's spokesman on Europe and International Development, will be speaking about Nicola Sturgeon’s speech in Brussels about the UK’s future in or out of the EU.

Baroness Royall and Lord True will talk about the House of Lords, and there will be a look at research by the TaxPayers' Alliance about some of the assets of local councils, which include nightclubs, a golf course, pigeon lofts and a wet fish stall.

And the programme will hear about the role of the three deputy speakers in the Commons with Lindsay Hoyle, who is in post now, and Natascha Engel who will be joining him without needing a vote from fellow MPs.

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Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt tells the House of Commons Mr Kennedy was a "giant of his generation" who proved that "you can be passionate and committed without ever being bitter or bearing grudges".

Lib Dem MP Tim Farron says: "You saw someone who was able to move an audience. If you were in a conference hall who thought one thing, he would speak and make them think another. Not in any contrived way but in a heart-felt way. When I met him you saw what he had which was something very unique. People talk about authenticity, people were warm about Charles because he was warm about them. Charles would have an approach to things where he would just speak from the heart. That's why people would believe him because he would speak the truth.

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From Highland boy to Westminster party leader, Charles Kennedy made a remarkable rise to prominence at a young age. Here the BBC looks back on the man who became known to some in politics as "chatshow Charlie".

"Charles Kennedy left a mark on British politics but it also left its mark on him. Elected at the age of just 23, politics and the House of Commons became his life whilst alcohol was his friend, his prop and his curse."

Read Nick's full posthere.

We've heard a lot about the good humour of Charles Kennedy, and here's a lovely example. 

On Twitter, Phil Lucas posts a picture of a letter he received from Mr Kennedy - a response to being asked which was his favourite character on The Muppets.

Mr Kennedy chose Gonzo, adding: "Even though he is blue he is a nice guy."

Iain Marshall went to the same school as Charles Kennedy and says he could tell he was going to be a political star back then:

Quote Message: We went to the same school - Lochaber high school. I was a bit younger than Charles - by about four years. He was active in debating then. You could tell he was going to be bit of a star. He was a decent guy even back then. I knew his family as well. I was a piper and his father was a fiddler. My mother taught him at school. A teacher called Mr Bob Dick was instrumental in getting Charles into debating by entering him into a competition, which he won. That was the start of his political career. I've known about his problems in recent years. When I heard he'd lost his seat, I felt for him then. It's a sad day for us all because he's had the seat for so long. He was a popular person. It's a tragedy. Everyone here is pretty devastated.

We went to the same school - Lochaber high school. I was a bit younger than Charles - by about four years. He was active in debating then. You could tell he was going to be bit of a star. He was a decent guy even back then. I knew his family as well. I was a piper and his father was a fiddler. My mother taught him at school. A teacher called Mr Bob Dick was instrumental in getting Charles into debating by entering him into a competition, which he won. That was the start of his political career. I've known about his problems in recent years. When I heard he'd lost his seat, I felt for him then. It's a sad day for us all because he's had the seat for so long. He was a popular person. It's a tragedy. Everyone here is pretty devastated.

Paddy Ashdown and Sir Malcolm Bruce are among those who have spoken to BBC Radio 4's Today programme about Charles Kennedy. Listen to their tributes here.

Dorothea, a Lib Dem member:

SMS Message: A good and kind man. God rest his soul and help his family with their loss.

A good and kind man. God rest his soul and help his family with their loss.

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In 1994 Charles Kennedy won £2,000 from a £50 bet when he predicted that the Lib Dems would take only two seats in the European elections. Some thought he was not taking politics seriously - but many liked the fact he seemed unlike other politicians.

Read more about Mr Kennedy in our profile here.

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Former Lib Dem MP Danny Alexander says: 

Quote Message: Charles was a Highlander through and through, a great liberal. He achieved a great deal for the communities he loved in the north of Scotland, and he gave courageous leadership to the opposition to the Iraq war. One of the many consequences of this tragic, untimely loss is that our country will not have the benefit of his sane, principled and persuasive voice in the debates about Scotland and Europe, two issues he cared passionately about."

Charles was a Highlander through and through, a great liberal. He achieved a great deal for the communities he loved in the north of Scotland, and he gave courageous leadership to the opposition to the Iraq war. One of the many consequences of this tragic, untimely loss is that our country will not have the benefit of his sane, principled and persuasive voice in the debates about Scotland and Europe, two issues he cared passionately about."

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Many tributes have been paid this morning to Charles Kennedy. The pathos of his death is only exacerbated by reading his maiden speech  in the House of Commons, made in 1983 as the Baby of the House at the almost inconceivably young age of 24.

The subject of the debate was "The Younger Generation" and his message at that time could be repeated in the Chamber today and not seem out of place.

Read the full post on Newsnight Live.

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"There is genuine public perception that we are being bulldozed into a war not of our choosing and not - on the basis of the evidence so far - vital to national interests."  

These are the words of Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy before the war in Iraq. To read more quotes from Mr Kennedy across a range of issues, click here.

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A lot will be written today about Charles Kennedy, most of it by journalists like me who knew him a little, but not a lot, who will seek, through their own anecdotes to try to illustrate something of the man, and his impact on British politics in the last few decades. That will be discussed through the course of the day. For now, he was an unusual thing in politics - kind and clever, and he treated everyone he came across equally, truly. There will be few tributes written by those who truly knew him well. One of them, well worth a read is here 

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Nicola Sturgeon says:

Quote Message: I've got some very fond memories of Charles Kennedy. He and I went on a study trip to Australia in the mid-1990s and perhaps my fondest memory, if a slightly bizarre one, is the two of us skiving off to see Trainspotting in a Melbourne cinema. I think we were the only two Scots in the audience at the time so we were drawing some strange looks as we were laughing uproariously at jokes nobody else in the audience was getting."

I've got some very fond memories of Charles Kennedy. He and I went on a study trip to Australia in the mid-1990s and perhaps my fondest memory, if a slightly bizarre one, is the two of us skiving off to see Trainspotting in a Melbourne cinema. I think we were the only two Scots in the audience at the time so we were drawing some strange looks as we were laughing uproariously at jokes nobody else in the audience was getting."

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Acting Labour leader Harriet Harman says Mr Kennedy was "deeply progressive" and a "delightful person with a great intellect".

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Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon says:

Quote Message: "It's a dreadfully sad day for Scottish and UK politics. The news about Charles Kennedy is stunning and absolutely tragic. Charles was one of these rare things in British politics, he was a brilliant and effective politician, perhaps one of the most talented politicians of his generation. And yet somehow he managed to be universally liked."

"It's a dreadfully sad day for Scottish and UK politics. The news about Charles Kennedy is stunning and absolutely tragic. Charles was one of these rare things in British politics, he was a brilliant and effective politician, perhaps one of the most talented politicians of his generation. And yet somehow he managed to be universally liked."

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Former Liberal leader David Steel says he will miss Mr Kennedy as a "very dear friend" who was "great fun to be with".

He says Mr Kennedy "understood" the rise of the SNP in Scotland, but "wasn't expecting to be swept away by it" at the election.

"I know that from the conversation I had with him just before the election but, you know, that's politics. That happened and he was just swept away in the tide."

Christine Nairn:

SMS Message: Charles Kennedy was an amazing politician who served his Highland constituents so well.

Charles Kennedy was an amazing politician who served his Highland constituents so well.

Iain Marshall:

SMS Message: Knew Charles from school. He was a thoroughly decent, genuinely good person. So sad to hear this tragic news.

Knew Charles from school. He was a thoroughly decent, genuinely good person. So sad to hear this tragic news.

Quote Message: He was a natural, he wasn't surrounded by spin doctors or an entourage. He was very much his own man...That came across to the public - they liked his approach, they liked him appearing on these chat shows. He was known scoffingly in the Commons as 'Chat Show Charlie' but I think that was jealousy. That was part of his effectiveness as a human being." from Lord Steel Liberal Party leader, 1976-1988

He was a natural, he wasn't surrounded by spin doctors or an entourage. He was very much his own man...That came across to the public - they liked his approach, they liked him appearing on these chat shows. He was known scoffingly in the Commons as 'Chat Show Charlie' but I think that was jealousy. That was part of his effectiveness as a human being."

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David Mundell, Secretary of State for Scotland, says:

Quote Message: "I have known Charles for over 30 years. He was an outstanding Scottish and British politician who was deeply committed to the Highlands and held in high esteem across the political spectrum for his judgement and principles. He was a genuinely nice man and his sense of humour and fun will be hugely missed. My sincere condolences go to his family at this terrible time.”

"I have known Charles for over 30 years. He was an outstanding Scottish and British politician who was deeply committed to the Highlands and held in high esteem across the political spectrum for his judgement and principles. He was a genuinely nice man and his sense of humour and fun will be hugely missed. My sincere condolences go to his family at this terrible time.”

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Former Lib Dem MP Lembit Opik says he was "not surprised" by Mr Kennedy's death, saying politics was "his life" and losing his seat last month would have been a major blow.

"He had a hunger to serve people - 32 years of it," he says. "I thought that he needed to get into the House of Lords quickly because that institution was enormously supportive."

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Click here to view the BBC's picture gallery of the life of Charles Kennedy. 

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Scottish Labour leader Jim Murphy says the UK has lost a "political giant". He adds:

Quote Message: "Although we came from different political traditions, Charles was a man I was proud to call a friend. When I was first elected to the House of Commons back in 1997 as a young 29-year old, Charles was one of the first people to offer me support and guidance. He didn't have to, but he did. That's just the kind of man he was. Despite the sadness, those of us who knew him will remember the good times. We will look back at Charles' wit and good humour. In years to come we will remember with a smile the delight in knowing him, his huge contribution to politics and a life lost too soon."

"Although we came from different political traditions, Charles was a man I was proud to call a friend. When I was first elected to the House of Commons back in 1997 as a young 29-year old, Charles was one of the first people to offer me support and guidance. He didn't have to, but he did. That's just the kind of man he was. Despite the sadness, those of us who knew him will remember the good times. We will look back at Charles' wit and good humour. In years to come we will remember with a smile the delight in knowing him, his huge contribution to politics and a life lost too soon."

In his 2001 book, The Future of Politics, Mr Kennedy looked back on his early life and career:

Quote Message: "The story begins in the West Highlands of Scotland in November 1959 and I cannot tell you where it might yet end. My first visit to London was not until the age of 17; my third visit was as a newly elected Member of Parliament in 1983. A friend put me up, in those first few crazy weeks, in his spare bedroom in Hammersmith. I didn't know how you got to Hammersmith from Heathrow airport. I had no idea where Hammersmith stood geographically in relation to Westminster. It was a fast learning curve."

"The story begins in the West Highlands of Scotland in November 1959 and I cannot tell you where it might yet end. My first visit to London was not until the age of 17; my third visit was as a newly elected Member of Parliament in 1983. A friend put me up, in those first few crazy weeks, in his spare bedroom in Hammersmith. I didn't know how you got to Hammersmith from Heathrow airport. I had no idea where Hammersmith stood geographically in relation to Westminster. It was a fast learning curve."

Quote Message: I think we're all shocked and saddened. He was a wonderfully talented man....he was our most successful political leader, led us to our best ever election results - twice - and he led the country in opposition to the Iraq war, which was a courageous position to take up. It wasn't fashionable at the time. And it stemmed from very shrewd political judgement, from Vince Cable

I think we're all shocked and saddened. He was a wonderfully talented man....he was our most successful political leader, led us to our best ever election results - twice - and he led the country in opposition to the Iraq war, which was a courageous position to take up. It wasn't fashionable at the time. And it stemmed from very shrewd political judgement,

Asked about the point when Mr Kennedy was "ousted" as Lib Dem leader in 2006 after his alcoholism became public knowledge, Mr Clegg says: 

Quote Message: "Charles Kennedy on form, on a good day when he was feeling strong and happy, had more political talent in his little finger than the rest of us put together and that's why everyone just felt, and still of course feels today, that it was just so tragic to see someone with such huge gifts also struggle as many people do with the demons that clearly beset him and the problems that he acknowledged he had with alcohol."

"Charles Kennedy on form, on a good day when he was feeling strong and happy, had more political talent in his little finger than the rest of us put together and that's why everyone just felt, and still of course feels today, that it was just so tragic to see someone with such huge gifts also struggle as many people do with the demons that clearly beset him and the problems that he acknowledged he had with alcohol."

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Former Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg says:

Quote Message: It's just desperately, desperately sad that Charles should have died so young, leaving behind a young son who he was devoted to. Charles was the absolute polar opposite of your cardboard cut-out, point-scoring politician. He was funny but also very thoughtful. He was tremendously kind but very courageous."

It's just desperately, desperately sad that Charles should have died so young, leaving behind a young son who he was devoted to. Charles was the absolute polar opposite of your cardboard cut-out, point-scoring politician. He was funny but also very thoughtful. He was tremendously kind but very courageous."

Greg Hurst, author of the book Charles Kennedy: A Tragic Flaw - a reference to Mr Kennedy's alcoholism - says Mr Kennedy was "quite a shy man".

He says Mr Kennedy found it "quite an effort" to maintain his public persona, and sometimes felt like an "outsider" at Westminster.

Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith says:

Quote Message: “For me and for many others he was a good friend – he was a courteous friend and adversary and always good humoured at the most difficult times. I know I personally will miss him a lot."

“For me and for many others he was a good friend – he was a courteous friend and adversary and always good humoured at the most difficult times. I know I personally will miss him a lot."

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Anna Soubry, Conservative minister for small business, was one of the first journalists to interview Mr Kennedy when he was elected in 1983. Speaking on BBC Radio Nottingham, she says she thought he was elected "completely to his surprise".

"Already it was quite obvious that he was a real star and it's a real loss. I'm very, very sad that he's gone," she says. "I saw him about two months ago and he wasn't in great shape truthfully but he'll be very sadly missed because he was very, very able. A real talent."

Charles Kennedy was the only leader of a major political party to oppose the Iraq war, and the only Lib Dem MP to refuse to go along with the coalition with the Conservatives.

Nick Robinson says these two facts alone make him a "unique figure in history".

BBC political editor Nick Robinson says Mr Kennedy's character was "unlike any in this era of professional politicians".

He says Mr Kennedy - despite being a professional politician - connected with voters "effortlessly".

Mr Kennedy "had the House of Commons as his life, as his family" from the time he was elected at the age of 23.

Mr Kennedy wrote in 2010 about why he "couldn't support" Nick Clegg's decision to take the Lib Dems into coalition with the Tories.

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Former prime minister Tony Blair says:

Quote Message: Charles' death is an absolute tragedy. He came into Parliament at the same time as me in 1983. He was throughout his time a lovely, genuine and deeply committed public servant. As leader of the Liberal Democrats, we worked closely together and he was always great company, with a lively and inventive mind. I am very saddened indeed by this news."

Charles' death is an absolute tragedy. He came into Parliament at the same time as me in 1983. He was throughout his time a lovely, genuine and deeply committed public servant. As leader of the Liberal Democrats, we worked closely together and he was always great company, with a lively and inventive mind. I am very saddened indeed by this news."

Lib Dem MP Tim Farron says:

Quote Message: “Charles was a friend, colleague and personal mentor. I am desperately saddened by news of his death this morning. His gentle good humour, combined with real courage, enabled him to engage with people who might otherwise have had little interest in politics, and he gave voice to the views of millions as the only mainstream party leader to oppose the Iraq war. His loss will be sorely felt today."

“Charles was a friend, colleague and personal mentor. I am desperately saddened by news of his death this morning. His gentle good humour, combined with real courage, enabled him to engage with people who might otherwise have had little interest in politics, and he gave voice to the views of millions as the only mainstream party leader to oppose the Iraq war. His loss will be sorely felt today."

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Lembit Opik, who was a senior Liberal Democrat MP during Charles Kennedy's leadership of the party, says he was concerned about Mr Kennedy's well-being.

"When he lost his seat, I said to people - as recently as last night - this guy has got to get in the House of Lords because he has spent 32 years of a 55-year existence in Parliament," he says.

"Without that support, he is in real danger of dying. We talked about it as openly as that. I was really concerned, because that was the support mechanism for him."

Former Labour strategist Alastair Campbell writes : 

Quote Message: Charles Kennedy was a lovely man, and a highly talented politician. These are the kind of words that always flow when public figures die, often because people feel they have to say those things, and rightly they are flowing thick and fast today as we mourn an important public figure, and a little bit of hypocrisy from political foes is allowed. But when I say that Charles was a lovely man and a talented politician, I mean it with all my heart."

Charles Kennedy was a lovely man, and a highly talented politician. These are the kind of words that always flow when public figures die, often because people feel they have to say those things, and rightly they are flowing thick and fast today as we mourn an important public figure, and a little bit of hypocrisy from political foes is allowed. But when I say that Charles was a lovely man and a talented politician, I mean it with all my heart."

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Norman Lamb says Mr Kennedy was a "great European" who would have "passionately" argued for Britain to stay in the EU at the forthcoming referendum.

He also says Mr Kennedy was "very brave" to make a stand against the Iraq war under "extraordinary pressure from every direction".

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Mr Kennedy's last tweet, posted two days after he lost his seat at the general election, included the words: "Thank you to the generation of voters, and then some, who put their trust in me."

The Lib Dem MP tells BBC Breakfast:

Quote Message: He was one of the great talents of his political generation - a wonderful communicator, a fundamentally decent man, never lost his cool. I spent a lot of time working with him. [He] never got angry with people but was immensely persuasive and he will be known, for example, for his stand against the Iraq war."

He was one of the great talents of his political generation - a wonderful communicator, a fundamentally decent man, never lost his cool. I spent a lot of time working with him. [He] never got angry with people but was immensely persuasive and he will be known, for example, for his stand against the Iraq war."

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Charles Kennedy was one of the most influential politicians of his generation. He led the Liberal Democrats to their best ever election result in 2005, carved out a distinctive position for his party on the left of British politics and perhaps most significantly ensured his party was at the forefront of opposition to the Iraq War. 

Charles Kennedy also brought a different style of politics to Westminster; more informal; relaxed and outgoing; generous to opponents, warm to friends and not one for the more bitter, dark arts of politics. He was a politician as much at ease in the television studios as in the Commons Chamber and struck a chord with the public in an age when politicians were more reserved and removed.

He sought to fashion a different way of doing politics: "The Lib Dems are nobody's poodles....but we're not rottweilers either. We don't savage on command. That's the old politics".

Never the most organised of politicians, he found the business of leadership more onerous and that, coupled with his drinking problems fuelled disquiet within the Parliamentary party that was eventually to lead to his toppling in 2006. 

Uncomfortable with the coalition with the Conservatives, in recent years he became a more distant figure at Westminster, but as a committed pro-European who was never shy of making he case for Europe he had hoped to take a prominent role in the forthcoming EU referendum campaign. 

Less than a month ago Charles Kennedy said that serving as an MP had been the "greatest privilege" of his life. After 32 years in the House of Commons, the 55-year-old was ousted from his Ross, Skye and Lochaber constituency as the SNP swept the board in May's general election.

After the result was announced, he said be would "personally be sorry not to be a voice in the Commons" before adding that he intended to "contribute in whatever way possible to the wider political debate and the activity of the Liberal Democrats".

He added:

Quote Message: The greatest privilege of my public life over these past 32 years has to be being entrusted with the responsibility of representing this constituency. That is thanks to a generation and more of voters who have extended that trust to me and I hope, looking back over those 32 years, they will feel that it was trust well placed."

The greatest privilege of my public life over these past 32 years has to be being entrusted with the responsibility of representing this constituency. That is thanks to a generation and more of voters who have extended that trust to me and I hope, looking back over those 32 years, they will feel that it was trust well placed."

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Charles Kennedy's predecessor as Lib Dem leader said:

Quote Message: He reached beyond the narrow circle of politics and touched people in ordinary life. That is why he was so loved. He was a great orator. He had the ability to move people. His most significant moment undoubtedly was when he went against the political establishment and led the Liberal Democrats into opposition against the Iraq War. History will judge him right on that.

He reached beyond the narrow circle of politics and touched people in ordinary life. That is why he was so loved. He was a great orator. He had the ability to move people. His most significant moment undoubtedly was when he went against the political establishment and led the Liberal Democrats into opposition against the Iraq War. History will judge him right on that.

Lord Ashdown added, on BBC Radio 4's Today

Quote Message: "He had his difficulties, he had his demons. We all do. But the question is can you rise above them. Yes, he did. He had a very difficult last few months. He lost his seat, he lost his father. But he rose above that. On form and on song, he was the best of us by a mile."

"He had his difficulties, he had his demons. We all do. But the question is can you rise above them. Yes, he did. He had a very difficult last few months. He lost his seat, he lost his father. But he rose above that. On form and on song, he was the best of us by a mile."

Carolyn Quinn looks back at the former Lib Dem leader's life - watch the video

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Charles Kennedy's political career began in the Social Democratic Party and he became the youngest MP of the time at the age of 23 when he won the Ross, Cromarty and Skye seat in 1983.

At first he was SDP spokesman on social security, Scotland and health and when most of his party merged with the Liberals to form the Lib Dems in 1988, he continued to hold a series of frontbench posts.

He took over the Liberal Democrat leadership from Paddy Ashdown in 1999 and led the party to its best election result since the 1920s in 2005, when the Lib Dems won 62 seats.

In January 2006 he said he had been receiving treatment for an alcohol problem and resigned as leader.

Read more

A Police Scotland spokesman said: 

Quote Message: Police officers attended an address at Fort William on Monday, June 1 to reports of the sudden death of a 55-year-old man. Police were notified by ambulance service personnel. There are no suspicious circumstances."

Police officers attended an address at Fort William on Monday, June 1 to reports of the sudden death of a 55-year-old man. Police were notified by ambulance service personnel. There are no suspicious circumstances."

Mr Kennedy's family said in a statement: 

Quote Message: It is with great sadness, and an enormous sense of shock, that we announce the death of Charles Kennedy. We are obviously devastated at the loss. Charles was a fine man, a talented politician, and a loving father to his young son."

It is with great sadness, and an enormous sense of shock, that we announce the death of Charles Kennedy. We are obviously devastated at the loss. Charles was a fine man, a talented politician, and a loving father to his young son."

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Hello and welcome to our rolling political coverage, which today will be taking in all the reaction to the news this morning that former Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy has died at the age of 55.