Cameron Calls Mandela The "Hero Of Our Time"

"Tonight one of the brightest lights of our world has gone out. Nelson Mandela was not just a hero of our time, but a hero of all time. The first president of a free South Africa, a man who suffered so much for freedom and justice and a man who through his dignity and through his triumph inspired millions," he said.Mandela died peacefully at his Johannesburg home after a prolonged lung infection, PresidentJacob Zuma said.

Mandela, the country's first black president and anti-apartheid icon, emerged from 27 years in apartheid prisons to help guide South Africa through bloodshed and turmoil to democracy.

Cameron said Mandela had inspired millions and would be remembered for his compassion and generosity.

"The first president of a free South Africa, a man who suffered so much for freedom and justice and a man who through his dignity and through his triumph inspired millions. The strongest impression of all when you met him was of his extraordinary compassion and generosity and forgiveness," said Cameron.