The Archbishop of Glasgow has paid tribute to former Pope Benedict XVI following his death at 95. 

Pope Benedict led the Catholic Church from 2005 until 2013, stepping down for health reasons after less than eight years as the head of the church.

He said he no longer had the physical and mental strength to run the church.

In resigning, he became the first Pope to resign since 1415.

READ MORE: Former Pope Benedict XVI dies aged 95, the Vatican announces

A statement from Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni today said: "With pain I inform that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died today at 9:34am in the Mater Ecclesia Monastery in the Vatican.

"Further information will be released as soon as possible."

The Archbishop of Glasgow, William Nolan, is among those who have paid their respects following the announcement. 

A statement on social media said: "The death of Pope Benedict will bring sorrow to Catholics around the world, but here in Scotland the memories of him are particularly fond.

"He celebrated the first Mass of his 2010 visit to Britain in Glasgow and many people have happy memories of that day, his kindly manner and the clear message he delivered.

"He will be remembered as a great theologian and teacher whose wisdom and humility were evident to all.

"May he rest in peace after a long life of devotion and service."

READ MORE: Scottish archbishop recalls ‘honour’ of close work with Pope Benedict

The Vatican said Pope Benedict’s remains would be on public display in St Peter’s Basilica starting on Monday for the faithful to pay their final respects.

Pope Francis will celebrate his funeral Mass in St Peter’s Square on Thursday, an unprecedented event in which a current pope will celebrate the funeral for a former one.