FORMER South African leader Nelson Mandela has died in his home at the age of 95, the country's president, Jacob Zuma, said tonight.

In a televised address, Mr Zuma said: ''Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father.

''What made Nelson Mandela great was precisely what made him human. We saw in him what we seek in ourselves.''

Mr Zuma added: ''he is now resting. He is now at peace.''

David Cameron tweeted his condolences, adding: ''A great light has gone out in the world. Nelson Mandela was a hero of our time. I've asked for the flag at No10 to be flown at half mast.''