By Anna Whittaker and Matt Jarram, Local Democracy Reporters
Nottinghamshire councillors and MPs have reacted with shock after a prominent Conservative MP died after being stabbed as he met constituents at a surgery.
Sir David Amess has died following the incident in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, at 12.05pm on Friday, October 14.
The 69-year-old, the MP for Southend West, was stabbed as he met constituents at Belfairs Methodist Church. He had been an MP since 1983.
Essex Police said a 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion murder. He is currently in custody.
Lee Anderson MP (Con) who represents Ashfield, said he knew Sir David and was in complete shock at what had happened.
He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “He was a lovely man and a gentleman. We are all in shock and we just want a few days to let it sink in.”
Leader of the opposition Conservative group for Nottingham City Council, Cllr Andrew Rule said: “As a councillor in the city you go to a surgery to help people and words fail me. I knew him by reputation.
“He left today to do his job and his job was serving the public and to help people and this happens.”
He added: “My thoughts are with his family and his friends and parliamentary colleagues that will be devastated by this or anyone who serves in public office.”
Mansfield MP and Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council Ben Bradley said in a statement: “He was genuinely the nicest, kindest man I’ve met in parliament. He was my friend, and everyone’s friend.
“He always took an interest, always sought to help people, to offer his experience. He reminded me of my own granddad who passed away a couple of years ago, in the way he was super enthusiastic and positive.
“The last time we spoke was after a Westminster Hall debate he was chairing where he came up to my office afterwards to ask me more about the subject because he genuinely wanted to learn about it and engage with it.
“David Amess was a thoroughly decent man. This is an absolute tragedy and loss. I’m so sorry.”
Cllr John Clarke (Lab), leader of Gedling Borough Council, said: “First and foremost condolescenes. He might have been a different political colour but he is a human being doing his job. I am absolutely appalled by the news.”
Nottingham MPs have also shared tributes on Twitter.
Alex Norris, MP for Nottingham North (Lab), added: “This is just terrible. David is an exceptionally kind man. He went out of his way to be helpful to me as a new member and has been a good friend ever since. My prayers are with him.”
Nadia Whittome, MP for Nottingham East (Lab), said: “Horrific news. My thoughts are with David Amess, his family, friends and office staff.”
Lilian Greenwood, MP for Nottingham South (Lab), said: “Shocked and horrified by the tragic news about David Amess. Thinking of his family, friends and constituents. It’s hard to imagine the shock and pain they must be going through.”
An Essex Police statement read: “We were called to an address in Eastwood Road North shortly after 12.05pm today (Friday 15 October).
“We attended and found a man injured.
“He was treated by emergency services but, sadly, died at the scene.
“A 25 year-old man was quickly arrested after officers arrived at the scene on suspicion of murder and a knife was recovered.
“We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.”
