'SA can be a success story'

British Prime Minister David Cameron on Tuesday suggested Nelson Mandela's legacy could lead South Africa to true success, eNCA reported.

"The legacy of Mandela is to have brought the country together... South Africa can be one of the success stories of the 21st century," Cameron told the television news station at the FNB stadium, where a memorial service in honour of former president Nelson Mandela is due to commence shortly.

"I'm an optimist," he added.

Dressed in a black suit and tie, Cameron said he had come to the memorial on behalf of the British people, whom, he said, felt very connected to South Africa and its struggle towards democracy.

"I thought it was very important to pay my respects... to such a brilliant man."

Cameron smiled as he recalled a meeting he had with Mandela, when the statesman visited London.

"I took my children, including my disabled son Ivan, and Madiba was so kind and sweet to them. I got a picture of them, and that is a picture I will treasure for the rest of my life."