ALEX Salmond’s family have paid tribute to the “devoted and loving” politician after his death aged 69.
The former First Minister of Scotland leaves behind wife Moira, sisters Margaret and Gail, and brother Bob.
He is also survived by nieces and nephews Christina, Karen, Mark, Neil and Ian.
They said in a statement: “The family of Alex Salmond would like to extend our sincere thanks for the many hundreds of kind messages, calls and cards.
“Alex was a formidable politician, an amazing orator, an outstanding intellect, and admired throughout the world. He loved meeting people and hearing their stories, and showed incredible kindness to those who needed it.
“He dedicated his adult life to the cause he believed in – independence for Scotland. His vision and enthusiasm for Scotland and the Yes movement were both inspirational and contagious.
“But to us, first and foremost, he was a devoted and loving husband, a fiercely loyal brother, a proud and thoughtful uncle and a faithful and trusted friend.
“In our darkest of family moments, he was always the one who got us through, making this time even more difficult, as he is not here for us to turn to. His resilience and optimism knew no bounds.
“He led us to believe in better. Without Alex, life will never be the same again. But he would want us to continue with his life’s work for independence, and for justice, and that is what we shall do.
“The dream shall never die.”
The ex-SNP leader — who led Scotland to the brink of independence — passed away yesterday following a suspected heart attack while attending a summit in North Macedonia.
