The unexpected news of Ian Bell’s death has shocked and saddened people from across Scottish political and civic life.

I last saw him just a few weeks ago at The Herald’s Scottish Politician of the Year awards, where he was on characteristically great form.

It feels unbelievable to be now reflecting on his life, cut short.

Nicola Sturgeon: Ian Bell's death is devastating, he was one of Scotland's finest writers

Ian Bell, award-winning Herald columnist, dies at age of 59

Whatever your views on the issue of the day, few would deny Ian was one of the most engaging commentators in Scottish politics.

He was never afraid to speak his mind – nor to go against the grain.

During the great debate of 2014, Ian played his part to the full. I'm sure I speak for the whole Yes campaign when I say we were so fortunate and grateful to have someone of his intellect, skill, determination and persuasiveness on the our side of the debate.

He was a passionate and persuasive champion of independence for Scotland, and I know his eloquence converted more than a few doubters to the Yes cause.

But he was not starry eyed about it - he saw Scotland and independence in the round, upsides and down, and he supported it not as an end in itself but for the even better country he thought it could lead to.

As the debate and Scotland's journey continue we will all miss his intelligence, insight and honesty.

And for those who ever found themselves on the wrong end of Ian’s dry and often merciless wit – well, it’s safe to say they were left in no doubt about where he stood

Just a few days ago, Scotland lost a literary giant with the passing of William McIlvanney.

And it was Ian, a close friend of McIlvanney, who penned the most eloquent tribute.

He left us in no doubt about not only the personal loss he felt, but also the immense loss to Scotland’s culture as a whole.

Re-reading that piece in light of Ian’s death, we can see many of the attributes that made Ian such an outstanding writer – his ability to not just describe events, but bring them to life with a gift for prose and lyricism.

Ian’s life has been cut short, but his mark on Scotland’s cultural life will remain for many years to come.

Of course, for all he was treasured by people across the country, he was first and foremost a loving husband, father and son.

As I offer my heartfelt condolences to Ian's family for their loss, I hope they find some comfort in the warm tributes being paid to him from his many friends, colleagues and admirers.