Essex’s newest MP gave an emotional tribute to Sir David Amess as she gave her maiden speech in parliament.

Speaking this afternoon Anna Firth, who was made MP for Southend West on February 3, made her delayed address to the House of Commons where she also talked up Southend’s bid to become the UK City of Culture in 2029.

But it was Sir David who dominated Ms Firth’s speech as she paid tribute to both him, his family and the numerous charities and good causes he championed during his 24 years as an MP for the constituency.

As well as heartfelt words on her predecessor she also paid tribute to Lady Amess and her five children saying “no one has paid a higher price for our democracy.”  

She said: “I will never forget that the circumstances that have bought me here are truly horrific. Sir David was and remains a legend across the whole of Essex.

“He embodied everything that is good about our parliamentary democracy. I think everybody here misses his decency, his kindness, his smile and his wicked sense of humour.

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“Here in Westminster, it is obvious to me how easy it might be to become disconnected from normal life and the constituents we serve.

She added: “Yet in almost 40 years as an MP, that never happened to Sir David. He remained absolutely dedicated to the people he represented.”

Ms Firth also championed Southend during her address which took place on the same day as the famous Queen’s Speech which this year was read out by Prince Charles.

She said the city was “absolutely worthy of being the UK City of Culture in 2029” given its “beautiful” sea front, medieval monastery and famous Palace Theatre.

Speaking after the speech she said it had been a “huge privilege” although she admitted there were also nerves ahead of her big moment.  

She said: “It was very important to me to pay tribute to my predecessor, Sir David, and to his family, who have suffered so much.

“It really is the greatest honour to have been elected the Member of Parliament for Southend West.”

She added: Following the outstanding example set by Sir David - I will do all I can to ensure that Southend is a beacon of enterprise, unity, kindness and opportunity.”