The News & Star readers have responded to Nicola Sturgeon stepping down as Scotland's first minister. 

The Scottish National Party leader stepped down at a press conference in Edinburgh today.

Ms Sturgeon has served as Scottish First Minister for more than eight years, taking over from Alex Salmond following the 2014 Scottish Independence referendum.

She is the country’s longest-serving first minister.

Here's what you had to say. 

Mark Ritson said: "Whether you support independence or you don't or you are on the left or the right, Sturgeon is actually one of the very rare modern day politicians that actually answered the questions put to her. She didn't dodge, waffle or distract.

"Maybe such a quality is so unusual today that so many post so negative about her. It was pretty much the same with Jacinda Adern."

Sharron Sloan said: "Best thing she has done for Scotland in her reign. She was so focused on creating that divide between Scotland and England that eventually she lost her way and indeed her purpose. 

"Hopefully the UK can now come together and work on the imminent problems that face us all and need addressing."