Prime Minister Boris Johnson has laid flowers at the scene of the fatal stabbing of MP Sir David Amess, which police believe could be linked to Islamist extremism.

Mr Johnson, accompanied by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle and Home Secretary Priti Patel, laid a wreath at the front of Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh, where Sir David was killed on Friday.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: Prime Minister Boris Johnson arrives in Leigh to pay his respects to fallen Southend West MP Sir David AmessPrime Minister Boris Johnson arrives in Leigh to pay his respects to fallen Southend West MP Sir David Amess

It came after Scotland Yard said the country’s most senior counter-terror officer, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon, has formally declared the incident as terrorism and said early investigations have revealed “a potential motivation linked to Islamist extremism”.

Sir David, 69, who had been an MP since 1983, was fatally injured while meeting constituents.

A 25-year-old man arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder is in custody at an Essex police station.

Official sources told the PA news agency the man is believed to be a British national with Somali heritage.

As part of the investigation, officers are also carrying out searches at two addresses in the London area, the Met said.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: Sombre - Essex chief constable BJ Harrington with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Prime Minister Boris JohnsonSombre - Essex chief constable BJ Harrington with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Prime Minister Boris Johnson

Sir David’s death has prompted police forces to contact all MPs to discuss their security and personal safety.

Veteran Labour MP Harriet Harman said she will be writing to the Prime Minister asking him to back a Speaker’s Conference to review the safety of parliamentarians.

Tory MP Tobias Ellwood, who was hailed as a hero for his attempts to save the life of Pc Keith Palmer during the Westminster terror attack, said face-to-face meetings with MPs should be paused until a security review has been completed.

Investigators believe Sir David’s killer acted alone and are not seeking anyone else in connection with his death.

According to reports, the knifeman was waiting among a group of people to see Sir David at the church and launched the attack shortly after the MP arrived.

Local councillor John Lamb, who arrived at the scene shortly after the incident, told the Daily Mail Sir David was with two female members of staff – one from his constituency office and one from his parliamentary office – when a man “literally got a knife out and just began stabbing him”.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

Chief Constable of Essex Police Ben-Julian Harrington said Southend West MP Sir David was “simply dispensing his duties when his life was horrifically cut short”.

Tory veteran Sir David, who was described by Mr Johnson as “one of the kindest, nicest, most gentle people in politics” was married with five children.

The attack came five-and-a-half years after Labour MP Jo Cox was killed by a far-right extremist in her Batley and Spen constituency in West Yorkshire.

 

Community answers

Sir David Amess: Book of condolence

"Leave your messages after Conservative MP Sir David Amess was stabbed to death at a constituency surgery, aged 69."

We asked for your responses - this is what you sent.

From Michael Jones

Please leave your thoughts here.A true gentleman who was. only doing his duty to his constituents rest in peace sir David

From Amanda Sibley

Please leave your thoughts here.Tragic loss to the communities of Southend thank you for your service passion and dedication to everyone in southend

From Alaba Banjo

Please leave your thoughts here.May his soul rest in peace

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.RIP Sir David I only met you once but you were kind, supportive and witty - above all, the strength of your faith shone through.

From Deborah Mercer

Please leave your thoughts here.Such sad news. My thoughts are with his family. A dedicated man who lived to serve. RIP David.

From Wendy Headford

Please leave your thoughts here.You luvly luvly man. Oh how you will be missed. You are and always will be Mr. Southend, as darling Beryl Scholfield was Mrs Southend. Out of respect I call you Sir David Amess, but to me you always were, and this will never change, simply David. My friend. Your kindness, that life lifting smile, your driven positiveness, your sometimes crazy ideas that when you told people, you would add, “Don’t worry, Wendy will make this happen, she’s marvellous!!” Your always being there for me with any little problems. Your assuring hugs, your support for all my shows, even when in London. I could go on and on. 🌟 I will continue to support all your causes, to the very best of my abilities, when we have another round the table meeting, your chair will be there for you. God Bless you, your beautiful wife and children. 💕💕💕💕💕 My heart and mind cannot comprehend the emotions that have been forced your way, following the most dreadful and heinous crime that was committed on Friday 15th October 2021 David. Keep watching over us down here you luvly, luvly kind man. 💕🎶💕

From Jason Harding

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David was such a kind soul especially to all his constituents and was always ready to hope those in need. Such a huge loss.

From Nicholas Bartleet

Please leave your thoughts here.We pray for the repose of the soul of Sir David Amess and ask Jesus and Mary to comfort Julia and Family. We never met David but have been touched and impressed how he conducted his public life and considered the needs of others. May his actions be remembered as a lasting tribute to him. Eternal Rest Grant to David. May he rest in peace. Nicholas and Cynthia, Sutton Coldfield.

From Roger Frith

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David was a friend to everyone and supported so many local events and charities. Whenever I saw him, in the street or supermarket he always remembered my name and asked about the family I will never forget him coming to the street party we organised in 2002 and when I last saw him a few weeks ago he asked whether we were doing one next year and said 'don't forget to invite me' A lovely loyal public servant and friend who will be sorly missed by everyone. RIP your lovely man.

If you would like to add a photograph, please add it here.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: Briarwood Drive street party 2002Briarwood Drive street party 2002

From Mrs. Kay Smedley

Please leave your thoughts here.Devastated to hear of Sir David’s passing. As an ex-resident of Eastwood Road North, Leigh on Sea now in Lincolnshire, I remember him very fondly, he helped my Brother Martin and his Wife Linda with their problems. Sincere Condolences go to his Wife Julia and the family. May they find comfort in the outpouring of love and respect for this Man with the biggest Heart.

From Cllr Helen Boyd

Please leave your thoughts here.All so terrible. Worked with and campaigned with this lovely, dedicated caring man for the last 10 years. He was always so full of energy and could revive flagging enthusiasm with a smile and good humour. Truly a great servant for the people he represented Thoughts go out to the family and his many friends and colleagues RIP Sir David xx

If you would like to add a photograph, please add it here.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: Visiting Mother and toddler group during the pandemicVisiting Mother and toddler group during the pandemic

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.A courageous caring ,peaceful man ,who would help anyone. Leigh on sea will never be the same without you as our friend and Mp . Forever in our thoughts RIP Sir David .Jan Oliver & family Jan Oliver

From Paula Renouf

Please leave your thoughts here.I never had the pleasure to meet this kind man and dedicated MP. I have been so shocked by Sir David’s death. RIP gentle man. My heart goes out to your family & friends. God Bless you all.

From Rofique ali

Please leave your thoughts here.My condolences for Sir David amess family's I feel sorry for madame Julia and her 5 children's for there's great loss Sir David was my best friend best mp nice and kind man person with golden heart he was ever genius soul who touch millions peoples heart I am totally brook God bless sir David amess mp we say ameen rofique ali juniper Road leigh on sea Essex

From KALPANA GIEBEL

Please leave your thoughts here.I am still in shock that this wonderful man has been taken from this world. My thought and prayers with all his family and friends. God bless his soul🙏

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.I was appalled to hear that the MP Sir David Amess had lost his life serving his constituents. I cannot begin to imagine the torment his wife and children must be going through. R.I.P. Sir David

From Denise Smith

Please leave your thoughts here.Such a tragedy. I met Sir David occasionally on a professional basis - I being a Labour Councillor from a neighbouring authority when there were joint working being done. There was probably little that we agreed on in politics but we disagreed with warmth and understanding. Never abusive. It is never appropriate for anyone to be killed simply doing their job. I hope we can find a way of elected politicians can meet with constituents. We must not let these people win. Let’s try and be kind and respectful in our dealings with each other. Rest in Peace Sir David and thoughts to your family and friends.

From FIONA BUNN

Please leave your thoughts here.Nobody who serves the public should be threatened or have their life taken away in such a callous manner. My thoughts have been with the family of David Amess since the news first broke and I cannot imagine the grief they are experiencing. By all accounts, even by people who hold opposing views, Sir David Amess was the most decent and caring of men whose loss will be sorely felt by his constituents and by all who knew him. Rest in peace sir.

From A Brit in Florida

Please leave your thoughts here.Thank you for a job well done, Sir David. My deepest condolences to your family. May you rest in peace.

From Sherill curran

Please leave your thoughts here.Beyond sad. Such a lovely man and equally lovely family. Fond memories from your time in Basildon. Thinking of you all with love. Sherill, Debbie and Mandi xxxxx

From Maria de Sousa

Please leave your thoughts here.Os meus sinceros pêsames e muita força para toda a família.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.So unfair. What a loss to all that knew you. RIP x

From Michael platt

Please leave your thoughts here.I was heart broken to hear this news you were a very decent human being doing your job. My thoughts are with your family and everyone in the country who stands up to the values you portrayed

From John & Amy Swords

Please leave your thoughts here.With great sadness we learned of the tragic death of Sir David Amess. He was by all accounts such a lovely , kind , and respected man, always working for and behalf of others, with selfless devotion. He will be greatly missed by everyone, in public life, and by his family to which he was devoted. His soul will for sure find eternal peace with God the creature, and his brutal and hateful murderer will forever will be denied that eternal rest.

From Doreen Smith

Please leave your thoughts here.Rest in peace Sir David. Sending deepest sympathy to your family and friends.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.So sad to loose a true gentleman in a evil manner RIP Sir

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.I am a Muslim, but this is so hard to believe and I’m so sorry.

From Margaret Rimmer

Please leave your thoughts here.I knew Sir David for over 16 years; 12 of these being as headteacher of Kingsdown School; I retired in 2017. In both capacities I have always been extremely impressed by his warmth, compassion and his ability to listen. Sir David always supported young people who have learning difficulties and treated them with respect. It was wonderful for them to have an advocate in such a high position. He would attend events and with sincerity, personally congratulate the children. With Sir David's death, Southend and Leigh has not just lost an MP, they have lost a caring man who truly believed in the area who always sought to achieve the best; not for himself, but for Southend. I sit here in utter disbelief that such a wonderful man can be killed so brutally, but my thoughts and best wishes must now be with his family. Sadly, I do not believe that Southend and Leigh will ever have such a wonderful promoter. Thank you Sir David, you were incredible.

From Beverley Wright

Please leave your thoughts here.A truly lovely man, taken far too soon.

From Karen Carr

Please leave your thoughts here.My family is so shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Sir David Amess, a gentle and kind man carrying out his service to our community. God bless you and your loved ones sir and may you Rest In Peace.

From HON MARIO GALEQ MP MALTA

Please leave your thoughts here.A friend, colleague and a unique gentleman. We used to meet annually in The Free Iran Conference. I still remember his cheerful smile. The last time we met in Albania he was deeply concerened about the brutal murder of the Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in my country Malta. Sir David was a strong supporter of democracy. He lived for democracy MP and died for democracy. My sincere condolences to his family and his constituents for whom he dedicated his life. Rest in peace my dear friend... Mario Galea MP, MALTA

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Thank you for your service to our community and your country as a serviceman. You took the time to respond to emails about our concerns. You would take time to smile and wave at the people. It is a great loss to our town.RIP Sir David Amess. Stand down your service is done.🇬🇧🇬🇧💙💙 Make Southend a city💙💙

From Derek Greenwood

Please leave your thoughts here.We are deeply saddened at the loss of such a friendly and honourable gentleman. Why would anyone do such a gastly thing to such a man. Our love and sadness to his family

From MR COLIN EASTWICK

Please leave your thoughts here.A true man of the people Like sir Teddy Taylor lived and breathed Southend on Sea. Will be sadly missed. RIP Sir David.

From Christine Ann Hills

Please leave your thoughts here.I met Sir David on many occasions, at dog shows, charity events, and he also helped my parents many years ago. I can say with hand on ❤️he was one of the kindest, caring, sincere and modest people I've ever met. I have been so upset and so pleased I attended the candle vigil at the civic centre yesterday, to share with others our sadness and sorrow for a huge loss to our town, and residents. I believe in Sir David's memory Southend should become a city, which he worked so hard for in his memory, with a statue for us all to be able to show our respect to him. RIP Sir David Amess 🙏you will be surely missed🙏

If you would like to add a photograph, please add it here.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: Candle vigil for Sir David Amess at Civic Centre on Saturday.Candle vigil for Sir David Amess at Civic Centre on Saturday.

From Karen Hardman

Please leave your thoughts here.So very sad to hear of this terrible news. I still can't believe it's happened and it doesn't feel real !! I send my deepest condolences to Julia and the family in their darkest hours. From a near neighbour, a photo is on FB xx.

From Tricia Parker

Please leave your thoughts here.A true gentleman, never without a warm and genuine smile. Totally Irreplaceable

If you would like to add a photograph, please add it here.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: IrreplaceableIrreplaceable

From Andrew Ager

Please leave your thoughts here.It’s with great sadness that sir David was taken in such a abhorrent way. I met sir David on numerous occasions and he was always willing to meet people and speak about many things especially animal welfare. God rest his soul.

From Michelle Russell

Please leave your thoughts here.I don’t think we will ever get over this. Sir David was a true gentleman the nicest man and amazing PM any community could ever wish for. My heart goes out to his dear family and friends. Sadly missed and never forgotten 🙏🏼

From Margaret Hammersley

Please leave your thoughts here.I'm so saddened to hear about Sir David's death. He was a wonderful kind man, so helpful and available.We will miss h8m

From Jennie wells

Please leave your thoughts here.Such terrible sad news my heart goes out to your family RIP

From Kim lench

Please leave your thoughts here.RIP Sir David sending lots of thoughts to your wife and 5 children my heart ❤ goes out to them 💙 xx

From Dave Rodger

Please leave your thoughts here.So sad to hear this news, our thought are with David’s family and friends. Although we did not know David and live so far away the messages and wishes from his constituency show the measure of this man and the love his constituents have shown prove he was a true local legend. Rest in peace and thank you for your lifetime of work for the people.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.So sad to hear of the loss of Sir David Amess. Tragic and cruel for a man so well loved and respected. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family friends and colleagues. You will always be remembered for the good work you done for our area and your love of Southend. Hope all the animals are looking after you now.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.I am so very sorry. I suffer from endometriosis and will forever be grateful for your fight to raise awareness of the issue. Rest in peace. God bless.

From Kim Williams

Please leave your thoughts here.All I can think is what happened yesterday, and the poor family left behind. And why people are doing things like this now. RIP Sir David Ames’s ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Sincere condolences to his family. A man who helped the people. He will never be forgotten.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.So saddened at Sir David Amess senseless death. My thoughts go to first his family and then his friends and colleagues who must be in total shock. He was a good man, did a lot of good for this country and supported so many worthy causes.

From Cm

Please leave your thoughts here.Rip sir David Amess, such a sad day , you will be sadly missed. I remember you as Basildon MP always wearing a smile for your people such a kind heart for everyone . Rest in peace sir David my thoughts go to your wife and family at this sad time god bless you .

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David is in Heaven now- he has earned his eternal rest by a selfless life dedicated to others as Jesus showed through his life. Rest is Peace.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.What a tragic and awful thing to have happened to Sir David. When members from both sides of the house call a man decent and honorable and friend to all you know you are mouning the loss of a great constituent Politician. My sincere condolences to his wife, children, grandchildren, family and friends. And to the people of Southend who have lost a great M.P.

From Janine Armitage

Please leave your thoughts here.This man was an amazing guy. Very friendly and down to earth and always willing to try and help where he could. He died needlessly doing a job that he loved doing. He was a people person.

From Piratheepan

Please leave your thoughts here.Our deepest condolences to Sir David Amess’s family and his staff at this terrible time. We were very shocked when we heard this devastating news. Sir David Amess Mp was a loyal servant to the people of Southend. Thank you so much for your help and advice in so many ways in business and personal matters too. We will forever remember you and your service towards us. Rest In Peace Sir

If you would like to add a photograph, please add it here.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: With sympathyWith sympathy

From Heather Phillips

Please leave your thoughts here.Requiescat in Pace Sir David Amess. In God's hands now.

From C Gaskin

Please leave your thoughts here.A man was loved and respected in the area by many was taken too soon. May u rest in peace Sir David and thoughts are with your family x

From Mona Sood

Please leave your thoughts here.The sad passing of Sir David marks a shockingly unjust end to a life dedicated to public service, and a devastating loss to so many. I offer my sincerest condolences to his family. David Amess has been a constant in the fabric of South Essex since I was a child, serving his constituents with exemplary and endless energy and enthusiasm. Sir David leaves a lasting legacy, and Southend must honour him posthumously to reflect the lasting imprint he has made on the town.

From Chris Gillibrand

Please leave your thoughts here.I had some dealings with Mr Amess when I worked in Parliament in the last century. Was always warmed by his wonderful and life-affirming character. I met him again a few years ago and he greeted me as if we had seen each other last the day before. The whole world is now so much poorer without him. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. Prayers for his family.

From Terrie Spiers

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David didn’t deserve this sending my love to his wife and children r.I.p sir David amess

From Natasha black

Please leave your thoughts here.R.I.p rest in peace up there lots of Jessie and Natasha

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.A kind generous and warm man who went above and beyond to help others. It is so desperately sad that his life ended the way it did.

From Chantal Taylor

Please leave your thoughts here.RIP Sir David Amess. You took the time to respond to my letter and raise my concerns over the CSA in parliment. A true gentleman who put our communities welfare first. You came to our Diamond Jubilee street party, took time to speak to us and enjoyed watching our children taking part in the old fashioned games . Our thoughts are with your family. We are all so saddend and shocked by your horrific untimley death 💙

From Susan Foreman

Please leave your thoughts here.So sad that this dear man David Amess has been killed going about his daily business. Meeting people from his constituency who he has served for the past 40 years Southend has lost one of its stalwarts, a kind gentle thoughtful loving gentleman. Rest in peace David. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family at this dreadful time.

From Fleur Kaur

Please leave your thoughts here.Devastated beyond belief. Sir David was a gentle, kind soul who had time for everybody. I will never get over this. Sending love and prayers to his family x

From Kumarasamy Sivabalan

Please leave your thoughts here.Sadden by the loss of a great soul Sir David Amess. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. RIP

From RICHARD ARTHUR SAYERS

Please leave your thoughts here.My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Sir David. We met several times, although knew others better ,Bernard Braine, Paul Channon, David Atkinson , Harvey Procter and others during my time as divisional chairman of south-east Essex and then Billericay 1964-1968. But close contact with all and followed Sir David's career in Parliament with interest. A good family man and MP, sadly missed

From chris wilson

Please leave your thoughts here.I am as shocked by this heinous and senseless crime as the rest of the residents of his constituency and he attended one of our live shows when he was at Southend Adult Community College and he was very kind to all of us so this is very hurtful from my point of view and will be for the rest of the year, may this lovely man rest in peace

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Im terribly sorry that this happened, RIP

From Shaun Malone

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David. We never met. I'm not a resident, but Southend has become a home from home for me during my life. I have many a childhood memory and I love the town as if it were my own hometown. I know you were a champion for Southend too, and a passionate believer in its potential. I hope your successor channels that passion for Southend and its residents that you so clearly cherished. My thoughts and prayers are with your wife and children, your friends, your colleagues, and with the constituents of Southend West and residents of Leigh, who will be in shock and sadness at this moment. I hope and pray that this awful event provokes a seismic attitude change about our actions and words towards elected officials, and to remember, as your late colleague Jo Cox declared, that we have so much more in common than that which divides us. Rest in Peace.

From Craig

Please leave your thoughts here.Thank you Sir David for all you have done and achieved for Southend. You will be missed. RIP Sir David Amess

From Catherine Smith

Please leave your thoughts here.Deepest sympathies to Sir David’s wife and children. Far too early to leave Southend, the town will be missing one of its heroes. RIP 💔

From Mary Morris

Please leave your thoughts here.I was devastated by this horrendous and senseless act. Sir David was doing what he obviously enjoyed, meeting his constituents. May Gods peace and love surround his wife and family at this awful time. Mary M

From Petrina Heward

Please leave your thoughts here.No words can express the absolute horror of what happened today. My heart goes out to his family and friends at this very tragic time. Rest in Eternal Peace Sir David Amess. 🌹 My condolences to his family

From SALLY Tyrie

Please leave your thoughts here.Such a sad day’ this wonderful man who always had a happy smile, his life taken for why ! Sir David was always there for his people, always had time to talk to you to help you and to listen , many a time he would visit the shop , full of the joys of spring, This is a terrible pointless thing to happen to such a true gentleman, My heart goes out to his family and his friends R.I.P. Sir David Amess you will be sadly missed, and thank you for your years of dedication x

If you would like to add a photograph, please add it here.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: Beautiful smileBeautiful smile

From Del Thomas

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David was a gentleman who was always smiling, he loved this town and was proud of it, he mentioned it so many times in Parliament. It is such a tragedy that he lost his life doing what he loved the most. He helped us at Off the Streets so much and never once asked for credit. Shocking news and am absolutely heartbroken. Condolences to Julia and family but also thoughts are with his staff and the members of the church who witnessed this horrific murder.

From Emily bullard

Please leave your thoughts here.Rip, you were one of the nicest mp.s, and thank you for helping me and my mum back when I was 16 me and my mum were.homeless and put in a hostel with a lot of bad people my mum reached out to Sir David amess to help get us out he went above and beyond to help he wrote every week to us to see how we were and that he was trying to sort out our living conditions to the council even though he was busy with other important things he gradually managed to get the council to move us to decent temporary accommodation, thank you soo much ,heaven has gained a wonderful angel,may you rest in peace

From Teresa Hobday

Please leave your thoughts here.I will never forget when you supported my daughters school from closure... The Deanes school. You also were a good friend to my late Uncle and my Late Father. You attended both funerals. You will be missed. God bless you Sir. Rest in peace. X💐♥️🙏

From peter Brooks

Please leave your thoughts here.My sincerest condolences on this senseless waste of life. I never knew David or was in his constituency, but this shocks me to the core. A poor fellow trying his best to improve the lives of his fellow constituents, and the rest of the country, his life cut tragically short. I am disgusted by the actions of the perpetrator, I hope the justice system throw the book at him, but even then it cannot replace a life no matter how harsh the punishment is. This makes me sad to be British. Our grandparents gave their lives to give us freedom, and this is the repayment ? My heart goes out to David's friends and family in what is definitely a harrowing time, I am so sad but cannot imagine the grief you feel, I am so, so sorry for your loss. David proved his worth to society in the work he did, and he will be fondly remembered for it. And we should all remember him likewise, a man who did his country and family proud. I hope some good will come out of this, as I'm sure that's what he would have wanted. RIP

From Evelyn Hadjicostas

Please leave your thoughts here.RIP Sir David, you were a good man who tried to help people and you will be missed by very many. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your wife and children. May they feel surrounded and supported by God’s love. E H

From Rowan Walker

Please leave your thoughts here.Very sorry to hear of this tragedy in the town where I live. Sir David was a hard working constituency MP. Condolences to his family. RIP.

From Cheryl Morgan

Please leave your thoughts here.Shocking news, my thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this awful time

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David Amess our Essex Man: great MP for a great county. Never to be forgotten as he will be remembered with much love.

From Mr Stephen Bolger

Please leave your thoughts here.We would like to express our sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Sir David Amess MP. He served his constituents with distinction through his skill, hard work, sincerity and kindness. This was a terrible act of violence and cruelty. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Amess family at this time. May he rest in peace. The Bolger Family

From Jon Bowen

Please leave your thoughts here.My deep condolences to David's family. I never agreed with David's politics, but he was a man who was true to himself and believed he was doing the right thing. The murder of an elected MP going about his duties is an attack on democracy, reminiscent of the murder of Jo Cox. The whole country should sleep uneasily tonight. I'm deeply troubled as to where the UK is heading.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.So totally shocked and saddened by this news. You achieved so much in your tireless campaign against animal cruelty, and did your absolute best to help people regardless of race, religion or creed. Your family will remember you with pride, and you will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, David ⚘

From Sharon osgood

Please leave your thoughts here.I didn’t know you , but you have had wonderful things said about you , how kind you were and your love for animals , my thoughts go to your wife , children and family at this terrible time . May you rest in peace 🌹Sharon from Farnham in Surrey 🌷

From Sammy

Please leave your thoughts here.My thoughts go out to hes family rip

From Pete Barnett

Please leave your thoughts here.I am so sad to hear this news today. Our country needs reputable hard working politicians from all sides of politics to make our democracy work. I fear that many able candidates will think twice now after this awful tragedy.

From Hayley Millest

Please leave your thoughts here.What a cruel cruel world we live in. Sir David Amess always had a smile on his face and stood up for a lot of great causes. He will be missed in the Southend area. May he rest in peace and justice be served

From Nicky and Rob Snow

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David Amess was a genuine humble man. 28 years ago he wrote a letter to my council to help me and my 2 year old son get our first home. He did amazingly. 6 weeks later we moved in to our brand new 1 bedroom flat in Rochford. When I thanked David in person 5 years ago he remembered my letter to him. Me and my husband Rob had the pleasure of spending time with David after our dear friend Judith was made Southend Mayor. He was a very charming and caring man who had a passion for life and genuinely loved people and animals. We are both in shock and can't believe he is gone. Our prayers with his wife and family

From Hether Molloy

Please leave your thoughts here.My deepest sympathies to Sir David's family and friends. Until today I had never heard of you but you sound like a decent , caring and hardworking MP. What happened today was horrendous. May he rest in peace

From Karen lang

Please leave your thoughts here.Sending Condolences - A man who took time to listen to others and would help where he could such a tragic loss x

From Jill Gibbs

Please leave your thoughts here.What a most dreadful waste of such a productive life. His politics didn't have to be the same as yours for him to offer his help. Thoughts go out to his wife and children for their too early loss.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Sending heartfelt condolences to David’s wife and children, friends and colleagues and his wider community and constituents. I did not know David, other than seeing him on parliament tv , but have wept for him today. An abundance of affection and love has been expressed in the aftermath of this senseless act. Love will always win against those who only offer hate and destruction. Rest in peace David, knowing you made a positive difference to the world and an impact on people’s lives 💙💙💙

From Sue Hancock

Please leave your thoughts here.A truly true man of the people - & a good friend - you will be so missed - Rest in Peace David - our thoughts & condolences to all of your family - God Bless You 🙏🙏🙏

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.The senseless murder of a defenceless, thoroughly decent, kind, hardworking man. RIP Sir David

From Linda Noons

Please leave your thoughts here.So so sad to hear this shocking news. Thank you Sir David you helped me on a few occasions and I will always be grateful to you. My thoughts are with your family. May God bless you. Xxx ❤

From mrs n reeves

Please leave your thoughts here.such a sad loss for a lovely local mp rip

From Shaun Carey

Please leave your thoughts here.Terrible just Terrible, I can't believe this has happened. Thoughts with Sir David's family at this time of sadness

From Simon Russell

Please leave your thoughts here.I am horrified that yet another one of our public servants has been brutally attacked and subsequently died. Although I never met Sir David I feel absolutely devastated. My love and thoughts go to Sir David's wife and his five children. Parliament will be a poorer place without him.

From Troy woodford

Please leave your thoughts here.Sincere condolences to David’s family at this tragic time , I met David a few times in Leigh Broadway and through email he was a gentle kind soul and a credit to his friend family and constituents and the Southend area he will be sadly missed kind regards Troy woodford

From Samantha Jane Arrowsmith

Please leave your thoughts here.So tragic.my deepest condolences to all his family and friends.

From Claire Collins

Please leave your thoughts here.Rest in peace Sir David. I am so sorry for your family, who can be proud of your hard work, your public spirit and your commitment to your constituents.

From Zoe scarpa

Please leave your thoughts here.Such a wonderful kind and caring man. My uncles attend the music man project of which he was president and patron for 20 odd years.my parents help out as I have done so in the past. I had a few conversations with him at the many concerts performed by music man students. Thank you for your continued support and help for adults and children with all kinds of disabilities. Your help and support has made a huge difference to the students and us their families. and you will be missed by everyone.

From Wayne Runagall

Please leave your thoughts here.I didn’t know Sir David,but as he was always in the ‘Echo’ it felt like I did. He was constantly campaigning for people in the Basildon and later Southend area,doing what a MP should do,look after your local community regardless if you voted for him or not. He will be sorely missed. Sincere condolences to his family.

From Samina Hussain

Please leave your thoughts here.Rip sir David amess was a real gentleman sorry to hear this news

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Thank you for your years of service, an absolute gem to the community, this shouldn’t have happened, thinking of your grieving family as this terrible time, RIP a true gentleman xx

From Miss ashley coxall

Please leave your thoughts here.My thoughts are with his family at this time words cannot describe what they must be feeling such a remarkable man going about his daily business and doing the job he much loved x

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David was very kind and supportive and understood peoples concerns and struggles. He did his best to help many people regardless of political affiliation. We are shocked at the sad news of his loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this awful time.

From LL

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David Amess was a gentleman. Kind, friendly and approachable, he made people feel at ease and was easy to talk too. I first met him at 7 years old and have met him several times since. Much love to his family and friends. Stand down now, your watch is over and you did an amazing job. May you rest in peace.

From Jenny Berg

Please leave your thoughts here.We are horrified, shocked, upset and immensely saddened to hear about the stabbing of David Amess, yet another MP who has given the ultimate sacrifice whilst serving his constituency. We cannot believe this has happened again. We send all sympathy to his family, friends and colleagues.

From Zoe

Please leave your thoughts here.RIP Sir David Amess, absolutely heartbreaking! So so sad 💔. He was such a kind and caring man! I count myself lucky that I knew him to talk to along with a lot of people from our local area. He always made time for his community. A thoroughly decent man who will be truly missed. Thoughts are with his friends and family xxx

From Jeanette hicks

Please leave your thoughts here.My heart goes out to his family sending huge hugs to them allxx

From Vasileios Sotiras

Please leave your thoughts here.I am shocked. Sir David was offering his life for improving our public life.

From Tony Le Masurier

Please leave your thoughts here.This was a terrible and inhuman tragedy. MPs should not be murdered in the course of doing their duty. David was the elected member for Southend West and worked extremely hard on behalf of his constituents. R.I.P.

From Mary Pearson

Please leave your thoughts here.I am so deeply saddened by this dreadful news. I am upholding you and your family in prayer and have made a donation to SPUC on your behalf.

From Stewart Hardy

Please leave your thoughts here.I have known Sir David Ames’s for over 20 years and thought of him as a friend as well as my MP. Such a tragic pointless loss. My condolences to his wife and family.

From Janice and Alan Saunders

Please leave your thoughts here.What an awful and sad thing to have happened to such a Gentle and Kind Man. David was MP for Basildon and he was well liked not only by the Basildon People but the People from Pickford as well. Rest In Peace David My Heartfelt Sympathies go out to His Family and Friends.

From Lyndsey Leeden Glassett

Please leave your thoughts here.Sincerest and warmest thoughts to the family and loved ones of Sir David Amess.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Such a lovely man, visible around the town and approachable. We were lucky to have him as an MP. So, so sad. His family must be devasted but must be proud of him.

From Nadia Dunaiska

Please leave your thoughts here.Our sincere condolence to family and friends, Rip Sir David Amess

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.A very sad day today, sending my condolences to his wife and family. RIP.

From Susan Evelyn Webb

Please leave your thoughts here.RIP, Sir David. You didn't deserve this.

From Sarah

Please leave your thoughts here.My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Sir David. I am shocked and heartbroken on your behalf. Sir David was a very good man who always had time to discuss local issues with my dad. His loss will be greatly felt in his constituency.

From Karen cummings

Please leave your thoughts here.My deepest condolences to David’s immediate family and children . I’m So sorry this happened to you utterly shocking . Rip 😢xx

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.So incredibly sad. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. RIP Sir David.

From Phil O'Shaughnessy

Please leave your thoughts here.Shocked and saddened at the news of his loss. My thoughts and prayers with the friends and family of Sir David. May he rest in peace.

From Susie R

Please leave your thoughts here.Utterly shocked and devastated for your family, friends and constituents. Such an evil calculated crime. I met you a few times, you were an absolute gentleman! May you rest in peace , Southend has lost a champion.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Totally shocked and saddened. Absolutely nothing but goodness and kindness running through Sir David Amess' veins. Condolences to all his family. A life meaningfully and beautifully lived. RIP

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.I had the honour of meeting Sir David at a series of fundraising events. He was one of the most pleasant, polite and smiley men I have ever met. He clearly cared about his community and everyone in it. This is absolutely heartbreaking and my thoughts are with his family and friends.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Sending my deepest condolences to Sir David’s family . So so upsetting what happened. I met Sir David a few times and he was always so friendly and polite. He always stood up for Southend and did so much over the years.

From Lee Doye

Please leave your thoughts here.I can’t put into words how sickening this is to write. A person carrying out his duty for and on behalf of the British public, needlessly, selfishly cut short. Now a family is missing one of its own, a loss that can not be comprehended. Rest in peace Sir David Amess, thank you for your service to the public of Essex and beyond. Love and thoughts from my family to yours on this tragic day.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.To the family of Sir David, I can only send my sincere condolences, I am deeply shocked and saddened. Be proud, as he showed the courage to remain in the public eye, especially in todays society of blame and media abuse. Sid David was also one of the very few, who, like I, believe, that people should remember, that, they are responsible for their lives and no-one else, and not a truer statement, can be made. My warmest regards and R.I.P Sir David

From Rosanna Pooley

Please leave your thoughts here.I never met you but always read about your devotion you gave to your community and all your work. Condolences to your family and friends.. A tragic loss.. RIP

From Rodney Clark

Please leave your thoughts here.I will pray the rosary beads prayers for the man.

From Jill

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David you were great ,kind ,compassion within you ,a humble humble man.I received an email minutes before his death .Helped me so much .

From Paul Sutton

Please leave your thoughts here.It is with great sorrow that we mourn the passing of Sir David he will be greatly missed by the taxi trades of both Southend and Basildon. Paul Sutton ex chairman Southend Licenced Taxi Association

From Cheryl Morton

Please leave your thoughts here.I am shocked that such a kind man I spoke to him at length years ago and praised him for his help!! Rest in peace Sir David my thoughts are with your family and close friends 🙏

From Annabel Barry

Please leave your thoughts here.I never met you but I knew you always had Southend's back. RIP Sir David, you will be greatly missed

From Tammy ward

Please leave your thoughts here.My thoughts are with mp sir David amess family at this sad time my thoughts and prayers are with his family may Justce with. Be served to the person who done this

From Ann-Marie Baker

Please leave your thoughts here.So very sorry to hear this, I didn't know him, but I'm so sorry for his family. May he RIP

From Mary Aston

Please leave your thoughts here.This is so wrong. My heart breaks for his family.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Rest in peace David. My thoughts are with your family and all who knew you. Thank you for helping me and my family. You made such a positive difference to our lives.

From Suzanna Taylor-Holmes

Please leave your thoughts here.A lovely man. Always replied to my e-mails and listened. Such a tragic loss. Love to Sir David Amess’s family and friends x

From Mr and Mrs Chas Ryan

Please leave your thoughts here.A true hero of the light…..may you rest in peace

From Diana Baete

Please leave your thoughts here.so sorry to hear this awful news our thoughts are with his family at this sad time x

From Steven Jones

Please leave your thoughts here.So sorry to hear the devastating news. You were a tribute to the community and Southend and the local area will be a poorer place without you.

From John A. Carter

Please leave your thoughts here.Very sad to learn of the devistating news. Never met David but saw him many times on TV. He was a good politcian. Democracy has been dealt a blow today

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.I am not a constituent. Just wanted to express my sadness, shock and anger at the senseless killing, no murder of this well loved, respected and kind politician. He has done so much for the cause of the disenfranchised and giving a voice to those who would otherwise not be heard. My prayers for his family and loved one and my condolences. May he rest in peace and may his memory be a blessing.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Farewell to one of Gods own. RIP David Amess.

From Carole whittaker

Please leave your thoughts here.We are appalled by the events of today and send our heartfelt condolences to his family and all who knew him

From Charlotte Hayden

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David Amess is the reason I was able to receive my disability benefits. He listened to me when the DWP overlooked me. He cared. Thank you for all your help, Sir David. Rest In Peace. There is never justice in murder.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Mps are never really loved but they do not deserve this. RIP Sir.

From Paul Stygal

Please leave your thoughts here.I never agreed with David's politics but this is abominable. Resorting to violence never solves anything. His death brings a stain on the whole character of the United Kingdom, as it did with Jo Cox

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.This is so very sad. David was a lovely kind hearted man who will be sadly missed around the town and community. My thoughts go out to his family. R.i.p

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.What dreadful news. From his parliamentary voting record it is evident that Sir David, was a champion of the vulnerable and a kind and decent man. Who was murdered whilst serving the people of Southend. My condolences go out to his wife and children, and his wider family and friends. May perpetual light shine upon him, and may he rest in peace.

From Mrs julie morris

Please leave your thoughts here.So sad may he rest In peace . I met him a few times over the years a truly lovely man . Thinking of his family will be sadly missed 💜

From Teresa Merrigan

Please leave your thoughts here.I met Dave Amess occasionally when I was a gauche young reporter on the Echo and he was at the start of his Commons career. I greatly appreciated his patience and lack of judgement.

From Katherine smithson

Please leave your thoughts here.My deepest sympathies to David’s families. I have never voted his side of the fence but on meeting David a couple of times out ‘on the street’, his passion for his community was evident, a sorry and senseless loss.

From Suzanne Zammit

Please leave your thoughts here.Such a tragedy. Sir David was a key figure in local politics and a highly respected man. I remember him at local events and more personally at Southend High School for Boys where he attended Remembrance and concerts. He will be sorely missed in our community. Death is always a shock but to die in this way is a real tragedy. He will never be forgotten. My condolences go to his family at this tragic time.

From Mark Maguire

Please leave your thoughts here.Absolutely devastated to hear this news. You were just doing your job and did not deserve this. God bless to your family, and may you rest in peace.

From Claire Harper

Please leave your thoughts here.Thank you for ur work and support getting my child back in to school You will be missed rip sir David

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.So very sad. My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues. RIP

From Annie May

Please leave your thoughts here.David has done so much for the people of Southend over many years as our MP. Thoughts with your wife and children. Thoughts also with his team members that were with him and witnessed this terrible day. For David make Southend a city. Xx

From Barry Eastwood

Please leave your thoughts here.Why oh why. Such a good and loyal man. Had earned great respect from his constituents and fellow M P s for his work in the community. My very sincere condolences to his wife and family.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Deepest sympathies to Sir David’s Family & Colleagues. May Sir David Rest In Peace. A Good Man has been so cruelly taken!

From Mel skingley

Please leave your thoughts here.Rip sir David Ames's I saw you when my dad was in hospital and you were visiting a constituent you came over and had some kind words my thoughts are with your family and friends

From Karen turner

Please leave your thoughts here.Sending condolences to David’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time RIP 😞

From Nicci Hartland

Please leave your thoughts here.You served the county to the best of your ability. May God take you into his arms and look over his family on this sad day. RIP good sir.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.We are very deeply shocked and am saddened to hear this terrible and horrific news today. Sir David championed the cause of ME sufferers in the U.K. and read out my letter in the 2019 Parliamentary debate. We always found him to be concerned for others and a kind and caring man. A member of our Church where many prayers are being said for the eternal repose of his Soul and for his wife and his five children. May he rest in Peace

From Danielle Mills

Please leave your thoughts here.Rip sir mp David amess I didn’t know him personally but my thoughts are with his family and close friends and work colleagues at this sad time 🥲

From Jayne Wakeling

Please leave your thoughts here.Heartfelt condolences to Sir David Amess, his family and friends. I am, like many others will be in total shock and deeply saddened on his loss of life, in such awful circumstances. RIP Sir David Amess x

From Patricia McLaughlin

Please leave your thoughts here.Sincerest sympathy to Sir David's family on their sad loss. May he r.i.p.

From Mrs Marion Phillips

Please leave your thoughts here.So very very sad. No one deserves this. His family must be absolutely devastated. Thinking of them.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.You looked a charming gentleman. Am very sorry this has happened to such a kind and caring person. My condolences to your family. RIP Sir.

From Joanne Gemmell

Please leave your thoughts here.A very sad day indeed. The death of this gentle man is tragic . I met David Amess a couple of times in Old Leigh recently and he was a thoroughly decent man. He asked to take a photo of our pug for his “dog of the day “ feature. He certainly didn't deserve what happened to him today. Deepest sympathy to his family and friends. RIP Sir David 😢

From John Adsett

Please leave your thoughts here.I first met Sir David when he was MP for Basildon. He must hold the record for mentioning (loudly) the town most times during parliamentary debates, such was his commitment to the constituency. I have met him several times since and his very evident enthusiasm to support and promote "his" constituency moved with him to Southend West. A tireless worker for all his constituents, he will be sorely missed.

From Jane Hammond

Please leave your thoughts here.Deeply saddened to hear this tragic news. My thoughts and prayers for all at this sad time.

From Michael Pertz

Please leave your thoughts here.Condolences to his family. A decent man has been murdered senselessly. Democracy will prevail. Our MP will be sadly missed. Rabbi Michael Pertz

From Katherine Mcinnes

Please leave your thoughts here.A very sad day, my heart goes out to his family at this time. To be murdered doing your job that you were elected for, to help the people and the local area that you were so proud to represent

From Peter Hearty

Please leave your thoughts here.A terrible tragedy and an outrageous crime. Whatever your personal opinions, an attack on an elected representative is an attack on democracy and an attack on us all. Sincerest condolences to Sir David's family and friends.

From Becky Walsh

Please leave your thoughts here.Thoughts and prayers for his family & close friends such shocking circumstances x

From Kevin Sloman

Please leave your thoughts here.A very sad day for humanity and the local area. Sincere condolences to the Amess family in the shadow of this tragic event. RIP David.

From David Baker

Please leave your thoughts here.Absolutely shocked and horrified at this news. Sir David Amess was an immense politician who served his constituents with great decency and leadership for four decades Hugely respected by many he will be deeply and sorely missed by anyone who had the pleasure to be in his company My deepest condolences to his wife Julia and their children and family.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.This was my manor fr nearly 40 years, it feels personal. R.I.P. Sir David. rest well. Joan Stevenson.

From Paul Collingwood

Please leave your thoughts here.An absolute tragedy. Thoughts and prayers for him and his family.

From Lorraine Davies

Please leave your thoughts here.Tragic, shocking & heart breaking news. Such a hard working MP doing his best. This poor unsuspecting family man taken in such a brutal manner. Thoughts go to his loved ones. RIP SIR

From Mrs jennifer lawrence

Please leave your thoughts here.So sad . R.i.p sir David ames. Thinking of your family.

From Cee Jay Collins

Please leave your thoughts here.You are a great loss to Southend West. You helped me out on 3 separate occasions and came through for me each time. Thank you for your time and help with me and those issues. Sleep well Sir Amess.

From S Z Sherwin

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David was a fine example of how to encourage change and kindness. He was everywhere in our area. Supporting everything we tried to do. You championed those those in need, and everyone that helped along the way.

From Maureen Rooke

Please leave your thoughts here.Words don't come easy at a time like this and those that do are of little comfort to his family. Sir David was a man who never forgot you,no matter what your role in life was. R.I.P Sir David your memory will live on.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Rest in Peace Sir David,God watch over and protect your family.He was always willing to attend and support local events.As he fought so hard to make Southend a City it should now happen in his memory.

From John Malone

Please leave your thoughts here.So sad to lose a great mp who worked tirelessly for his constituents. A sad waste of a good man. RIp

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Absolutely heartbreaking sad news R.I.P Sir David my heart goes out to your family and friends. SHINE BRIGHTLY

From Ewan Kerr

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David was a true gent, whether it was campaigning for the restriction of medical services for unexpectedly pregnant teenage mothers, championing the rights of animals ahead of a woman's right to choose what happens to their bodies or tirelessly raising the issue of Czech neck for cake addicts the man truly stood up for his views. A sad and disastrous day indeed.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.God bless you and you're family David A wonderful man. A kind gentlemen . Heart broken

From Martin and Dot Sams

Please leave your thoughts here.We were so sorry to hear this tragic and sad news .We lived in leigh and moved 10years ago but David Amess helped us so much and met with us several times at his surgery when we lived in Leigh .He was a genuine person and kind hearted and a true gentleman and made time for us. He will be so missed. Our thoughts go out to his family and close friends .Rest in Peace.

From Janine Bowman

Please leave your thoughts here.RIP SIR DAVID AMESS and enormous hugs to your Family.Bring back the Death Penalty.

From Craig Hewitt

Please leave your thoughts here.Met this gentleman twice, once 1984 just after he became an MP for Basildon at my school debating society, and once whilst working 8n Southend. Lovely, amicle gent who always had time for everyone,. My thoughts are with his family and friends

From Emily Crooks

Please leave your thoughts here.What an absolutely awful thing to happen! He was such a great guy and did so much for the local community! Sending my condolences to Sir David's family and friends. Rest In peace x

From Joanne Hart

Please leave your thoughts here.Although Sir David Ames's wasn't my MP living in Southend he was a well known individual trying to improve our area! Working hard friendly family man! My condolences to his family and may Sir David rip

From Valerie Atkinson

Please leave your thoughts here.Words cannot describe how I feel about the shocking murder of this good man who has done so much to make life better for so many people in the community. To be attacked in this way whilst carrying out his work at his constituency is truly shocking. Thoughts go out to his family.

From Valerie Atkinson

Please leave your thoughts here.Words cannot describe how I feel about the shocking murder of this good man who has done so much to make life better for so many people in the community. To be attacked in this way whilst carrying out his work at his constituency is truly shocking. Thoughts go out to his family.

From Valerie Atkinson

Please leave your thoughts here.Words cannot describe how I feel about the shocking murder of this good man who has done so much to make life better for so many people in the community. To be attacked in this way whilst carrying out his work at his constituency is truly shocking. Thoughts go out to his family.

From Anthony White

Please leave your thoughts here.Very sad to hear, i met him once when he knocked on my door during a campaign. Seemed like a very decent chap. Thoughts are with his family.

From Christian Barkei

Please leave your thoughts here.A great constituency MP and a true friend to many people from across the whole spectrum of political and public life. He was always happy to get involved in local matters and eager to introduce students and young people to politics and to public service. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. Thank you for your service David.

From Anthony Westbrook

Please leave your thoughts here.Sincere condolences to Sir David’s family. Absolutely shocking! RIP.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Shocking and sad. He visited the Horse Sanctuary in Pitsea when I was a volunteer there many years ago and was such a nice man. An animal lover too. I can’t believe it. Condolences to his family. Xxx

From Linda Lee

Please leave your thoughts here.So shocked to hear this today. He was a lovely kind man. Condolences to his wife and children 💙

From Debra Payton-Kent

Please leave your thoughts here.I am so sorry to hear this tragic news. This should not be happening!! It is just horrible my thoughts go out to Julia and your children. I was a bridesmaid at your wedding and I still remember that day so well. Such a terrible loss xxx

From Michelle cooke

Please leave your thoughts here.It was a pleasure to know you sir David condolences to your wife and children r.i p you were a real gentleman x

From Steve Ames

Please leave your thoughts here.RIP David, you were a decent man and a good MP, to many causes. My thoughts are with your family and friends

From M

Please leave your thoughts here.Rest in peace.

From Kelly Casbard

Please leave your thoughts here.Very shocking news he helped me get my son out of a bad school and into a good one. Rip thoughts are with his wife and kids x

From Haley Star

Please leave your thoughts here.As a humanitarian caring and loving to all I am unable to find the capacity of mind to reconcile such an injustice to humanity My thoughts and condolences to Sir David Amess' s family and all affected by this mindless act Haley Star UK Human Rights Campaigner UK

From Keith Blackman

Please leave your thoughts here.Extremely saddened to learn of the terrible news. A lovely, caring gentleman who worked tirelessly for the greater benefit of the people of Southend. A very genuine person, quite a rare attribute in the world of politics today, and he will of course be greatly missed by so many. Tragic and cruel.RIP Sir David

From Trevor nuth

Please leave your thoughts here.My thoughts go out to his family ...he was such a lovely man . My wife and i met him a few times and he always listened to our problems and always did his best to help our situation .and always came good ...

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.A thoroughly decent man. RIP David

From Cllr Carole Tan - South Ward

Please leave your thoughts here.My heart felt condolences to Sir David's family, friends and colleagues. Hope and pray this horrific tragedy is not repeated.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.I once met Sir David on a train while he was on his way to Westminster and took the chance to discuss politics with him (David Cameron was PM at the time). A thoroughly decent man and excellent MP - how else would he have continued for so long? - who always put Southend first, including for those of us who live in the eastern half of the borough. It's a great shame that he will never get to see Southend become a city - here is hoping that very status comes our way next year, creating a legacy for Sir David both on merit and as a tribute to his efforts and memory

From Steve Randall

Please leave your thoughts here.Incredibly shocked and saddened to hear that someone who's given their life in the service of other people has had their life cut short in this way. I hope his family will find solace in the fact that he died carrying out his life's calling. My thoughts and prayers are with with them in their darkest hour.

From Steve Wood

Please leave your thoughts here.Awful news

From Dominik Dawson

Please leave your thoughts here.My thought are with his family and friends at this time rip sir David amess

From Patricia Jolly

Please leave your thoughts here.No way to die, RIP. Condolences to his family. Thank you for your service

From Leah Clarke

Please leave your thoughts here.You will be greatly missed. Such a good man.

From Samantha Lane

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David and John Lamb were the only local politicians at the time willing to try and track down my 95yr old neighbours war medals that she never received for being one of the few women that saw active service in Gemany in WW2. She was demobbed by Sarah Churchill but never was never issued her medals until Sir David got on the case! Rip Sir David. A true servant to his constituents.

If you would like to add a photograph, please add it here.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: A dedicated servant to his constituents. God Bless his Soul.A dedicated servant to his constituents. God Bless his Soul.

From Peter walker

Please leave your thoughts here.Not my mp and not my political party but incidents like this and Jo Cox transcend party politics my deepest sympathies to his family and friends

From Cheryl Morrish

Please leave your thoughts here.A very sad day in Eastwood. Our thoughts are with your family.

From Sharon Banton

Please leave your thoughts here.R.I.P Sir David a sad loss for our community my condolences to his family and friends 🙏

From David King

Please leave your thoughts here.Very sad to hear of this tragic loss. No matter what his political views, no one deserves to be murdered while just doing their job. He was not a bad person, and I hope his murderer will face justice.

From Claire Bellisario

Please leave your thoughts here.Thoughts and prayers go out to his family and everyone who knew him..RIP Sir David Amess

From Penny Wraight

Please leave your thoughts here.An extremely sad day and my thoughts are with Julia and family. Sir David was a very kind, gentle and community minded MP who I had the pleasure of working with on several occasions to raise money for Charitable causes for Basildon in the 90’s. An outstanding MP who will be a tremendous loss.

From Robert O'Connell

Please leave your thoughts here.My thoughts are with David's family and friends. When a man cannot do his job anymore is when we all need to look at society. Everyone has disagreements, but we should not use that as a reason to use violence. Use knowledge and learn. I feel this as a very raw moment in Britain and in politics in general.

From Mark Williams

Please leave your thoughts here.So very, very sorry to hear the news that Sir David has been taken from us. A charming and gentle man. Why would anyone wish to harm him. Sincere condolences to his family Rip Sir David

From Jenny Mortimer

Please leave your thoughts here.So very tragic thinking of and sending condolences to the family and friends of Sir David 🙏

From Stephen Turnbull

Please leave your thoughts here.I am shocked and saddened by this dreadful news. My condolences to his family and friends.

From Kelly wing

Please leave your thoughts here.Such a brilliant man who helped my family through tough times. My thoughts are with his family at this terrible time

From Mark Bromfield

Please leave your thoughts here.A sad loss - Sir David was a hardworking local MP.

From Jean hunt

Please leave your thoughts here.This is so sad David was a true gentleman always helping people much respect for him and my condolences to his wife and children you will be sadly missed by thousands 😢 xxx

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Such a humble man who always did the best for his constituents in a quiet, dignified manner. Always went out of his way to help us. Thank you for helping us over the years. Rest in peace and may your family be helped and supported.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.RIP Sir David our thoughts are with your family at this very sad time ,Thankyou for always supporting Southend community events always there with us rain or shine , you will be very sadly missed .

From Chango Bobster

Please leave your thoughts here.Sir David Amess, rest in peace. We don't yet know why this shocking and horrific incident happened, but the fact remains your life has been callously taken and you leave behind family, friends and constituents who will be forever grateful for you and your hard work. None of this will ever be OK or make sense, but I know that the legacy you leave behind will speak of your noble character and the good man you were. Condolences to all Sir David Amess's family and friends and may Sir David Amess rest in peace.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Thoughts with the family at this terrible time! How many more ?

From S Harrison

Please leave your thoughts here.Such sad news!! Rest in peace, sir David amess.

From Cllr James Courtenay

Please leave your thoughts here.RIP Sir David. I thoroughly enjoyed your guiding hand from day one of my getting involved in the local community. Shocking to think a career as a constituency MP that has lasted my entire lifetime has been brought to an end in such a deplorable way.

If you would like to add a photograph, please add it here.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: One of Sir David's first selfiesOne of Sir David's first selfies

From Michael and Anne Crabb

Please leave your thoughts here.Our thoughts and prayers are with David's family. He was the very best of M.P's, always selflessly giving his time for the benefit of the Community.This is a tragic loss.He will surely always be remembered, with great affection and gratitude..

From Sandra Burton

Please leave your thoughts here.My heartfelt wishes go to your family at this terrible time. Rip sweet man xxx

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.I met David a few times in my time at Southend at both council meetings and with resident groups. A lovely, honest man who will be sorely missed by his constituents, who he worked tirelessly for. Commiserations to his family on this sad day.

From Grace Chambers

Please leave your thoughts here.We thank you for being so proud of Southend and for the kindness you always showed us as your constituents. We thank you for your service and your devotion to our town. Southend will forever remember you and your legacy. Sir David, rest in eternal peace.

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.So very sad. Cannot imagine how the family must be feeling. No matter what the politics of an MP they are serving their constituents and should be safe whilst doing so. RIP David Amess. Southend will remember you 🙏🏽

From Lorraine hyde

Please leave your thoughts here.My thoughts are with his family at this tragic time. Many years ago he arranged for myself and colleagues from the pre school learning association to climb the steps of the tower up to see the workings of Big Ben and also a tour around the houses of Parliament this was a charity event and he supported us RIP Sir David Amess

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.Rest in Peace David, thank you for your help over the years !

From Brenda Philpott

Please leave your thoughts here.My deepest condolences to Sir David’s family! I had recent contact with him and found him to very polite and kind! Very shocked by today’s events! Love to you all!

From Community contributor

Please leave your thoughts here.David Amess - we never agreed politically. But I grew up in Leigh and have always known your name. You visited my school, and then as I grew up I sometimes saw you on my train to and from London. You were just a part of Southend, a feature of it, the same as any landmark. But of course, a human being. And to hear of this tragedy has truly affected me, and many people I know. We are shocked. Debate and democracy requires two sides. A piece of Southend is missing now. My best wishes to your family in this awful awful time. This is a loss for all of the residents here who have known you for so long, but so much more to those who have lost a husband and father.

From Jane Ponton

Please leave your thoughts here.Deepest sympathies to Sir David's family, friends and colleagues. Such a tragedy for a man who was so committed to his community.