Friends and foes of Alex Salmond have paid tribute to his extraordinary career as first minister and SNP leader.
Scottish Labour leader Johann Lamont said he has been “an immense figure” in political history even though his love of independence “sometimes blinded him to its consequences”.
Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said no one could dispute Mr Salmond’s political achievements but his decision would “help our country come back together again”.
Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said Mr Salmond was a “hugely talented” politician but he had now “exhausted his political purpose”.
Dave Thompson MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, said he was “very sad” that Mr Salmond was stepping down because he had done a “fantastic job” by leading Scotland to the point where 1.6million backed independence.
Aberdeen Donside SNP MSP Mark Mcdonald said he had been a “fantastic” party and government leader and his resignation would be a “great loss”.
Former SNP leader Gordon Wilson said it was a mark of Mr Salmond’s integrity that he had taken personal responsibility for a No victory but was “vexed” by his decision.
“He is undoubtedly the greatest Scottish politician of his generation and has led the SNP with distinction over a twenty year period,” he added.
Law Society of Scotland president Alistair Morris said Mr Salmond’s place in political history was “assured” and his achievements could not be underestimated.
“He has also been a proud and effective ambassador for Scotland on the world stage and we wish him well for the future,” he added.
Federation of Small Businesses’ Scottish policy convener Andy Willox said: “Alex Salmond has made a huge contribution to Scottish public life.
“His door was always open and we wish him well with whatever he chooses to do next.”
Scottish Parliament presiding officer Tricia Marwick said Mr Salmond was an “outstanding” parliamentarian.
“He will bow out following the most remarkable national debate and democratic renewal of our nation,” she added.