EIGHT Tory candidates have thrown their name in the hat to be the new MP for Southend West, but filling the shoes of Sir David Amess is an almost “impossible task.”

Southend’s Conservatives confirmed that the candidates have put their name forward to represent Sir David’s constituents moving forward, but insisted the process to interview them has not yet begun.

The Tories won’t start the formal process until after his funeral.

The MP for Southend West, known as Mr Southend, was killed during a constituent surgery inside the Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh earlier this month.

Southend was named a city in his honour, following his lengthy campaign for the title.

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John Lamb, the former Mayor of Southend, said: “We will be respecting the family and not intruding on them.

“They haven’t been identified, they’ve come to us, expressing their interest.

“Sir David leaves such a massive hole and a huge void behind.

“The next person has to bring their own skills and personality to the role.

“They have to know Southend and the region inside out.

“It’s such big shoes to fill they will have to do it in their own way.”

Sir David’s tragic death has prompted security concerns for both MP’s and councillors across the political spectrum.

The man accused of killing Sir David will face trial next year.

Ali Harbi Ali, 25, of Kentish Town in north London, is charged with murder and the preparation of terrorist acts.

The Labour, Liberal Democrat and Green parties have already stated they will not be contesting the seat out of respect to Sir David.

However British Freedom Party said its leader, Jayda Fransen, would stand in the by-election.

Aston Line, who stood as Southend West candidate for Labour at the last general election said: “It’s only right that we don’t field a candidate.

“I’ve had a few notes from residents who have expressed their disappointment that we’re not fielding a candidate, but it’s out of respect to Sir David and his family.

“A precedent was set up following the murder of Jo Cox in 2016, and we’re following that.

“When the next general election rolls around, we will fight it as we normally would, something which Sir David would want.”

Nigel Holdcroft, president of Southend West Conservatives, told the BBC the eight candidates would be considered “on their merits.”

Mr Lamb added: “It’s still really difficult at the moment, and still quite emotional. We still expect to see Sir David popping his head into the association, something which he used to do often.”