Nicola Sturgeon has led tributes to Stone of Destiny "liberator" Ian Hamilton, who has died aged 97.
The former lawyer was one of four Glasgow University students who made headlines around the world when they removed the ancient coronation stone from Westminster Abbey in 1950 and returned it to Scotland.
The First Minister hailed him as "one of the many giants on whose shoulders the modern SNP stands".
Hamilton and his co-conspirators left the stone on the high altar of Arbroath Abbey in April 1951 where it was recovered by police.
Despite a huge police investigation the group was never charged with any crime - but were later credited with helping spark a renewed interest in Scottish history.
Sturgeon tweeted: "I am extremely sad to hear of Ian Hamilton’s death. He was a lawyer of exceptional quality and a legend of the independence movement.
"He will long be remembered as one of the Christmas 1950 liberators of the Stone of Destiny.
"During my time as SNP leader I have received occasional words of wisdom, encouragement and support from him, which I will alway treasure. He is one of the many giants on whose shoulders the modern SNP stands. My condolences go to his loved ones."
Gavin Hamilton MP, who represents Hamilton's home town of Paisley, said: "Very sorry to learn that Paisley’s very own, Ian Hamilton has died. An accomplished advocate, he will be remembered best as an independence campaigner.
"On Christmas Eve 1950, Ian, with three friends, liberated the Stone of Scone from Westminster Abbey.
"It was traditionally used In the coronation of Scottish monarchs, but stolen in 1296 by Edward I.
"Ian was a towering figure in the indy movement and is yet another who has passed before his dream could be realised.
"It's for Ian and so many others like him we must deliver that prize."
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