COUNCILLORS have been warned to prepare “escape routes” when they meet with residents in public following the murder of Sir David Amess MP.

Sir David, MP for Southend West, was stabbed to death inside the Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh, while holding a surgery for his constituents.

In the wake of the tragedy on Friday, councillors have revealed they have been briefed by Essex Police on additional security measures.

Suggestions have included ensuring there is an “escape route” from the location.

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Councillors have also been told to hold surgeries with more than one councillor present, and holding them in public places.

Carole Mulroney, Lib Dem councillor, said: “We’ve had security briefings as councillors.

“We’ve been told to make sure we have an escape route.

“I think there needs to be a complete review of security, both for MP’s and councillors.

“Council officers are working with police on this, so I’m sure we will be told more soon.”

A 25-year-old man, named as Ali Harbi Ali, is in custody, arrested on suspicion of Sir David’s murder.

He was initially arrested on suspicion of murder and held in Essex.

He has since been transferred to a London police station where he was further detained under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act. Early investigations revealed a potential motivation linked to Islamist extremism.

Tony Cox, leader of Southend Tories, said: “Most of us have experienced harassment or death threats, we can relate to that when MP’s speak about it.

“There’s a whole raft of issues, there needs to be a wider review.

“You have to be aware of your surroundings, but what do you do if you’re on your own? It’s not just surgeries that need looking at.

“There was some good advice given, and there needs to be a balance. We can’t not have cornerstones of our democracy [surgeries], Sir David wouldn’t want that.”

Andrew Schrader, councillor of the Billericay East ward, added: “I have been invited by Essex Police to attend an online briefing for elected representatives around personal safety. Always somewhat sobering.

“My thanks to Inspector Parry for taking the time to speak to me and my fellow councillors.”

Southend Council will be reviewing security at the Civic Centre and other buildings.