THE flags at Holyrood are at half-mast in mourning for one of the Parliament's own, the SNP's Brian Adam, who was hailed by the First Minister as "an outstanding politician, a fine human being and a dear friend".

The MSP for Aberdeen Donside died at the age of 64 after a lengthy battle with cancer and there were warm tributes from all sides of the Chamber as Presiding Officer Tricia made the announcement.

Ms Marwick announced that a book of condolence was available for MSPs to sign. She said: "Brian was a dear friend and colleague and a fine Parliamentarian. His loss will be felt right across the Chamber and, on behalf of the whole Parliament, I extend our deepest sympathies to his family. I will miss his friendship and great sense of fun."

Mr Adam's wife Dorothy and his five children issued a statement saying: "Brian had a hard fought battle with cancer, but passed away peacefully during the night at home.

"We would like to thank Brian's colleagues and constituents for their huge support over this challenging and sensitive period."

First Minister Alex Salmond said: "Brian was an exceptional MSP and was one of the crucial people who as chief whip sustained the minority government between 2007 and 2011. I was delighted to see him serve as a minister in this Parliament.

"Of course his greatest service was to the people of Aberdeen for a quarter of a century – first as a councillor and then as an MSP. I'm proud to say I've known and admired him over that entire period as an outstanding politician, a fine human being and a dear friend."

Labour leader Johann Lamont paid a warm tribute to Mr Adam, saying: "I have always recognised him as a man of strong conviction, of decency, of profound faith. A man who cared deeply for his family, his party and his country."

Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said Mr Adam had served with "diligence and decency", and that the thoughts of Tory MSPs were with his family, friends and colleagues.

Scottish LibDem leader Willie Rennie said: "We are all saddened at the passing of Brian Adam, who served the parliament, his party and his community well. A compassionate and decent man, he will be dearly missed at Parliament."