Local politicians have responded following the tragic death of MP Sir David Amess, who was brutally attacked at his constituency surgery today.

Sir David, 69, first became an MP in 1983 and has represented Southend West since 1997.

North East Herts MP Sir Oliver Heald 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."

South Cambridgeshire MP Anthony Browne also paid tribute to his fellow MP.

He said: “The death of David Amess is shocking and devastating news.

“Sir David was such a friendly, charming and kind-hearted man. A close friend and colleague to many, he took the time to welcome me to Parliament and I will always appreciate the chats we had over the last few years.

"It is such an appalling loss for Parliament and for the country, and my thoughts are with his family and staff.

“This is a truly awful day, and an attack on democracy as we know it. The world we live in has become so much more hostile for anyone to express their views, and attacks like this bring into sharp relief the human costs of such hostility.

"It should not be tolerated in politics or any walk of life.”

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."