FORMER SDLP leader John Hume has been hailed as “an absolute giant of political life” after he died at the age of 83.

The former Foyle MP, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for efforts in forging the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland, had suffered ill health for a number of years.

He had dementia and was being cared for in the Owen Mor nursing home in Londonderry.

In a statement, his family said: "We are deeply saddened to announce that John passed away peacefully in the early hours of the morning after a short illness.

"We would like to extend our deepest and heartfelt thanks to the care and nursing staff of Owen Mor nursing home in Derry. The care they have shown John in the last months of his life has been exceptional."

They added: "John was a husband, a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather and a brother. He was very much loved, and his loss will be deeply felt by all his extended family.

"It seems particularly apt for these strange and fearful days to remember the phrase that gave hope to John and so many of us through dark times: we shall overcome."

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said Hume was Ireland's most significant and consequential political figure.

"It is no exaggeration to say that each and every one of us now lives in the Ireland Hume imagined – an island at peace and free to decide its own destiny," he said.

"This is an historic moment on this island, but most of all it is a moment of deep, deep sadness. In the days ahead, Ireland will be united in mourning his loss.

"However, amidst that national mourning, it is equally true that the marking of John's death also opens up a space to reflect on, and celebrate, the magnitude of his life.

"As part of that reflection of John's work, never has the beatitude rung truer – blessed be the peacemakers.

"The life of John Hume will forever be a blessing upon this island since Ireland is now blessed by the peace he gifted to us all. It is the greatest legacy a political leader can bestow upon his country."

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also paid tribute.

"Very sad news," she tweeted. "He led a life that made a difference and leaves a legacy that will live on. RIP John Hume."

SNP MP Pete Wishart added: “An absolute giant of political life. I had the pleasure of serving in Parliament with John for 4 years and you could not come across a more gentle but utterly determined man.”