The widow and children of the late Brian Adam MSP listened as tributes from across the political divide were paid to him at Holyrood.

Mr Adam, who died aged 64 from cancer last week, was chief whip in the first minority SNP Government.

A special motion of condolence was called by the Scottish Parliament's presiding officer, Tricia Marwick.

Dorothy Adam was joined by their five children – Neil, Jamie, Sarah, David and Alan – at the session in the parliament chamber yesterday.

They heard First Minister Alex Salmond reflect on Mr Adam's political career, which began in local government in Aberdeen, before he was elected as an MSP in 1999.

The SNP leader said: "He was a family man, kind and generous friend, outstanding politician and he will be sorely missed."

Ms Marwick said: "Brian was admired across the parliament because of what lay at his core – he was simply a good and decent man."

Tributes were also paid by Scottish Labour leader Johann Lamont, Ruth Davidson, leader of the Conservatives and LibDem leader Willie Rennie.

Mr Adam's funeral will be held today at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Aberdeen.