Tributes have been paid to former US President Ronald Reagan, who has died at the age of 93.

His death, at a home in Los Angeles where he was surrounded by close family members, came after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease.

President George W Bush offered his prayers and condolences to the Reagan family.

"A great American life has come to an end," he said.

During his presidency, which lasted from 1981 to 1989, President Reagan was credited with restoring American self-confidence while helping to bring about the demise of the Soviet Union.

He also formed a close relationship with former prime minister Baroness Thatcher, who described him as "a truly great American hero".

"He will be missed not only by those who knew him and not only by the nation that he served so proudly and loved so deeply, but also by millions of men and women who live in freedom today because of the policies he pursued," she said.

The Queen issued a statement saying she was saddened by the news.

And the prime minister's spokesman said the former US leader "will be remembered as a good friend of Britain".

However, Number 10 said last night that it was too early to say whether Tony Blair will attend the state funeral in Washington later this week.