Local leaders pay tribute to Sir David Amess, MP

Cllr Margaret Borton, Mayor of Southend-on-Sea, says: “Our deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of Sir David. The tragic news today has shocked us all.

“Sir David was a dedicated Member of Parliament and servant to the local community.

“I don’t think I can put into words just how devastating this is.”

Cllr Ian Gilbert, leader of the council, says: “I am profoundly shocked by the news and my thoughts are with Sir David’s family and friends at this awful time.

“Sir David was a great advocate of Southend-on-Sea, cared deeply about the community and will be sorely missed This really is a terrible day for the whole community of Southend-on-Sea.”

Cllr Tony Cox, leader of the Conservative group on Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, says: “We are all shocked and saddened by the death of Sir David Amess.

“He was a great man, a great MP, a respected parliamentarian and respected by his residents. What we cannot lose sight of here is that a wife has been robbed of a husband and five children have been robbed of a father.

“He was a passionate believer in the right of life and it's poignant that his life has been so cruelly taken away. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.”

Andrew Lewis, chief executive of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, says: “On behalf of council staff, I express our deep sadness at this awful news.

“Sir David was a long-serving Member of Parliament and the biggest champion of Southend-on-Sea and his Southend West constituency. He will be greatly missed.”

Flags on council buildings and in parks were lowered to half-mast this afternoon.

More information: tributes, local information and books of condolence.