The SNP's first female parliamentarian, Winnie Ewing, has died aged 93, her family has announced.

Known as Madame Ecosse, Winifred Margaret "Winnie" Ewing is perhaps best known for marking her shock victory in the Hamilton by-election in 1967 with the declaration: "Stop the world, Scotland wants to get on".

She was also the mother of Cowdenbeath MSP Annabelle Ewing and Inverness MSP Fergus Ewing, the former Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Tourism.

A statement issued on behalf of the family said: "Mrs Ewing, generally considered the most important Scottish politician of her generation, served as an MP, MEP and MSP, and was the first presiding officer of the reconvened Scottish Parliament in 1999.

"She sparked the revival of the SNP's fortunes, which continue to this day, with her victory in the Hamilton by-election of 1967.

"Mrs Ewing died on Wednesday aged 93, surrounded by her family.

"She is survived by children Fergus, Annabelle and Terry, and grandchildren Natasha, Ciara, Jamie and Sophie.

"She also had a deep affection for daughters-in-law, Fiona and Jacqui. She was a loving and devoted wife to Stewart Martin Ewing, who died in 2003, aged 76.

"It would be appreciated if the family could be accorded privacy at this time."

The former First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, said she was "heartbroken" after hearing the news of Mrs Ewing's death.

She tweeted: "I can't begin to convey the depth of gratitude I feel for the advice, wisdom, encouragement and inspiration Winnie gave me and so many others over the years.

"She was a master of the art of campaigning and it was a privilege to learn from her.

"Today, Scotland has lost one of her foremost patriots and champions, the SNP and the independence movement have lost a beloved icon and Fergus, Annabelle and Terry Ewing have lost their mum.

"My condolences to them and the wider family.

"Thank you Madame Ecosse."

Flags at Holyrood were lowered as a mark of respect.

Scottish Parliament presiding officer Alison Johnstone said: "We will all be deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Winnie Ewing.

"An inspiring and hugely influential politician, an MSP, an MP and an MEP, and of course first person to chair the reconvened Scottish Parliament in 1999."

She added: "I know members will wish to join me in conveying our deepest sympathies to our colleagues Annabelle Ewing and Fergus Ewing and to all her family and friends."

First Minister Humza Yousaf tweeted: "I am heartbroken that we have lost a shining light of our party.

"Without Winnie's trailblazing victory in the 1967 Hamilton by-election and without her dedication to the cause of independence, the SNP would simply not have achieved the success we have.

"Winnie, more than anyone else, ensured our party was outward looking.

"She promoted Scotland's interests in Europe over many years. Thank you Madame Ecosse for your service to our party and country.

"My thoughts and prayers with Winnie's family, especially Fergus, Annabelle and Terry."