MPs and councillors from our area have paid their respects to Sir David MP, who has died after being stabbed at his constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea today (October 15).

Sir David, 69, had been an MP from 1983, representing Southend West since 1997.

Stevenage MP Stephen McPartland said that news of Sir David's death is "devastating".

"He was a hugely popular Parliamentarian, friend and mentor. My thoughts are with his family at this difficult time."

Leader of Stevenage Borough Council, Sharon Taylor, also expressed her condolences to Sir David's loved ones, describing his passing as "dreadful" and "tragic".

Sir Oliver Heald, who had known Sir David for three decades, represents North East Hertfordshire.

In a statement to the Comet, Sir Oliver said: "I am so sad to hear of David’s death after the brutal attack on him at his constituency surgery.

"He was such a very kind friendly person, full of enthusiasm for causes such as animal welfare and also for his constituency.

"I knew him for more than 30 years as a colleague and friend. He was very helpful when I was first elected and helped to teach me about the work of an MP.

"My thoughts are with his family at such a dreadful time. It is a tragedy."

Richard Fuller, MP for North East Bedfordshire, expressed his sadness of Sir David's death, describing the attack as "a public tragedy as well as a devastating family tragedy."

"My prayers are with his family and with his staff who helped him today and throughout his years of service as a Member of Parliament," he said.

Over the weekend, Robin Parker, leader of the Stevenage Liberal Democrat group, offered his sympathies.

"On behalf of Stevenage Liberal Democrats, I wish to express my horror and disgust at the appalling news about the murder of Sir David Amess MP.

"All those elected to public office should be able to perform their duties, as David was trying to do, without violence, fear or threats.

"Naturally, our thoughts and concerns at this time are for David’s family and personal friends."

A spokesperson from North Herts Council paid tribute to Sir David: "Everyone at North Herts Council is deeply saddened to hear of the horrific death of Sir David Amess MP.

"We wish to send our heartfelt condolences to Sir David’s family and our best wishes to anyone involved in the incident.

"We also thank all those in the emergency services who responded with such speed and courage. Sir David and his family will continue to be in our thoughts.

"We condemn this murder and all attacks on politicians and the public they are democratically elected to represent."

Bim Afolami, MP for Hitchin and Harpenden, honoured to his parliamentary colleague.

“Across parliament, there is total shock about the events of Friday afternoon when our colleague, Sir David Amess MP, was killed at a constituency surgery. Sir David was a kind man, always willing to offer a wise word, give a needed piece of advice, or do a quick favour.

"He was a real presence, a dedicated and long-serving constituency MP, and loved by all those who knew him. My thoughts are with his family, friends and staff at this incredibly difficult time.

"Over the coming weeks there will need to be important conversations about the security of MPs and our staff, to ensure that we can continue to be as responsive and engaged in in-person activity as possible, whilst staying safe.”

A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder, and is being held under the Terrorism Act.