DEVASTATED politicians have paid tribute to Conservative MP Sir David Amess who has died after being stabbed several times at his constituency surgery.
The 69-year-old died following the attack at an event in Leigh-on-Sea in his Southend West constituency.
Sir David is the second sitting MP to have been killed in the last five years after Labour MP Jo Cox’s murder in 2016.
An MP since 1983, Sir David represented the constituency since 1997 and was widely respected across the chamber.
Pershore’s MP Harriett Baldwin said: “I am numb with grief and shock at this awful, awful news about a very dear colleague. Words cannot express how heartfelt are my condolences.”
Evesham’s MP Nigel Huddleston said: “Absolutely horrific news that Sir David Amess MP has died after being stabbed at a constituency surgery.
“He was one of the kindest people in politics. He will be greatly missed by his constituents and everyone in parliament.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends
In a statement, Essex Police confirmed a 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and a knife was recovered.
“We were called to an address in Eastwood Road North shortly after 12.05pm today (Friday, October 15).
“We attended and found a man injured. He was treated by emergency services but, sadly, died at the scene.
“We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.”