Beiruting News

Nelson Mandela, the global statesman who delivered South Africa from the dark days of apartheid, has died aged 95.

Mr Mandela had suffered from a series of lung infections over the past two years and died at home in the company of his family.

Minutes after the news broke British politicians from across the political divide begun to pay their respects.

Mr Mandela's wife Graca Machel, and some of his three children, 17 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren were with him in his final days, with other family and friends in attendance.

Condolence books will be opened in all of South Africa's diplomatic missions abroad.