UK Parliament to pay tribute to Nelson Mandela

Members of the UK government are to stop work and pay tribute to Nelson Mandela at the Houses of Parliament today.

They've said honouring the former South African president, who died on Thursday, would be their "principal occupation" of the day.

Another event will take place later in the week at Westminster Hall, where Mr Mandela spoke to parliament in 1996.

Image caption, A plaque marks Nelson Mandela's 1996 address in Westminster Hall

More than 60 world leaders have said they will attend his memorial service or state funeral.

Prime Minister David Cameron will represent the UK and join other world leaders at the service on Tuesday at the Soweto stadium in Johannesburg.

The stadium was the venue for the closing ceremony of the World Cup in 2010 - Mr Mandela's last public appearance.

Prince Charles has confirmed that he will travel to South Africa to represent the Queen at the state funeral for Nelson Mandela on Sunday 15 December.

Prayer and reflection

Yesterday, people in South Africa held a day of "prayer and reflection".

South African President, Jacob Zuma, encouraged people to go to places of worship on Sunday to remember their former President.

Since Mandela's death was announced on Thursday, crowds of people have been gathering outside the houses where he lived, lighting candles, praying, singing and dancing in celebration of his life.

Click here to read our guide about why Nelson Mandela was important.

Look back at the life of Nelson Mandela in pictures.

Find out about some of Mandela's most memorable speeches.