THE Police, Fire, and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Roger Hirst, has paid tribute to Sir David Amess.

Sir David, who was fatally stabbed inside the Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh at around midday today, had been holding a surgery for residents at the time.

He was stabbed several times, and lost his life despite the best efforts of paramedics at the scene.

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Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “This is a shocking and utterly despicable attack against somebody who was an outstanding MP and has worked tirelessly for their community for many, many years.

"My prayers are with Sir David’s family at this incredibly difficult time. I also want to acknowledge the officers who attended the event for their bravery and courage.

“It is vital that we give the police all our support to ensure that they can do their job at this time. For anybody who has information please do not hesitate to contact the police.”

A spokesman from Essex Policve, said: "Essex Police needs anyone who saw anything or has CCTV, dash cam or doorbell footage to contact them.

"If you have any information you can submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

"Please quote incident 445 of 15 October.

"You can also call Essex Police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."