Charles Kennedy's family said he died of a "major haemorrhage" that was "a consequence of his battle with alcoholism".

The relatives of the former Liberal Democrat leader issued a statement following a post-mortem examination.

They also said they had been "touched beyond measure by the outpouring of warmth" following his sudden death at his home in Fort William on Monday.

His family said a post-mortem examination had found he had he suffered a "major haemorrhage".

"The report makes clear this was a consequence of his battle with alcoholism," the statement said.

"We are grateful to the many friends and also medical experts who sought to help down the years but ultimately this was an illness Charles could not conquer despite all the efforts he and others made."

It added: "The pain we feel has been at least eased somewhat by the reaction of so many people across Scotland, the UK and beyond, and by the affection expressed by politicians across the spectrum."

"It has become all too apparent to us how much Charles meant to so many people and how many lives he touched."

Mr Kennedy's ex-wife Sarah and son Donald (10) attended a special session in the House of Commons on Wednesday, where the British Prime Minister led cross-party tributes to the popular politician.

The family said: "The words and images of that day, and of so many other tributes, will be there for us to look back on with pride in Charles, and Donald will always know what a special father he had."