NICOLA Sturgeon yesterday led tributes to former SNP leader Gordon Wilson, saying he made an immense contribution to the success of her party and his loss would be keenly felt.

Wilson, who died aged 79 in hospital yesterday after a short illness, was elected as the MP for Dundee East in 1974, a seat he held for the next 13 years. He was leader of the SNP from 1979 until 1990, when he has succeeded by Alex Salmond.

The First Minister said: “Gordon Wilson’s contribution to the success of the modern SNP was immense and his loss will be keenly felt across our party. He was a fine and kind man, a loving husband, father and grandfather, and a true patriot.

“From his early days promoting the case for independence on Radio Free Scotland to his 13 years of service as MP for Dundee East and 11 years as leader of the party, Gordon was a passionate advocate for Scotland at every level.

“He was at the centre of many lively and passionate debates through the 1970s and 80s over how independence would be achieved, and continued to play a part in the independence debate right though to the referendum in 2014.”

She added: “Gordon was always forthright in his views and his commitment to seeing Scotland become an independent country was second to none. Even — perhaps especially — on those occasions when his views on tactics differed from mine, I always valued and appreciated his advice.

“My thoughts are with Edith and all of his family at this time. Gordon will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all those who knew and worked with him in the SNP and across the country.”

Wilson is survived by his wife, Edith, his daughters, Margaret and Kate, and five grandchildren.

Salmond said: “Not only was Gordon one of the masterminds of the SNP parliamentary breakthrough of the 1970s but he led the party through tough times in the 1980s. Holding his Dundee seat in 1979 and 1983 was crucial in retaining the credibility which allowed the SNP to prosper in the 1990s and beyond.

“The party, the national movement and Scotland owe him a great debt and my condolences go to Edith and the family.”

Deputy First Minister and family friend John Swinney said: “Gordon Wilson was a giant of the Scottish National party. He was critical to the transformation of the SNP from the fringe to the mainstream of Scottish politics. His administrative, campaigning and political skills built the SNP into a nationwide political force. The strength of the SNP today is built on the courage and tenacity of fine people like Gordon Wilson.”

Jim Sillars, who served as SNP deputy leader under Wilson for a period, posted a tribute to his former boss on Twitter.

“Gordon Wilson died this morning. My privilege to know and work with him. He is owed unpayable debt of gratitude by #SNP and Yes movement.”

His post added: “Gordon Wilson’s leadership, work and dedication in 80s dark days kept SNP+indy alive. Honesty, integrity, and moral compass were his hallmarks.”

MPs, MSPs and activists also paid tribute.

Scottish Brexit Minister Mike Russell tweeted: “Gordon Wilson kept @theSNP & the idea of independence credible & in the public eye during hardest of times: condolences to Edith & family.”

Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, tweeted: “Gordon Wilson was a powerful, passionate force for Scotland and he fought her cause with utmost conviction. Condolences to Edith and family.”

Pete Wishart, the SNP MP, tweeted: “Really sad to hear of the death of Gordon Wilson. A true giant of the independence movement.

Glasgow party worker Mhairi Hunter tweeted: “Had my disagreements with Gordon Wilson but no-one can doubt the huge role he played in our movement and the debt we owe to him.”

She added: “We usually say RIP at this juncture but in this case I feel sure that, if it is at all possible, Gordon will continue to keep an eye on us!”

Tributes were also paid by politicians in rival parties.

Murdo Fraser, the Scottish Conservative MSP, tweeted: “Sorry to hear about the death of Gordon Wilson. Didn’t share many views, but he was man of principle and conviction.”

Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale also sent her condolences. “On behalf of the Scottish Labour Party I would like to extend our condolences at this sad time,” she said. “Our thoughts are with Gordon Wilson’s family and friends at this time.”

The Herald columnist Iain Macwhirter tweeted: “Gordon Wilson was SNP leader when I began my scribblings He said the SNP was a revolutionary movement or nothing. RIP.”