Politicians in Ayrshire have sent their condolences to the family and friends of Conservative MP, Sir David Amess, who has died after being stabbed.
Around 12.05pm today [October 15], Essex Police were called to reports of a stabbing in Leigh-on-Sea.
A man has been arrested and is now in custody. A knife was also recovered. Police say they are not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident and there is not believed to be an ongoing threat to the wider public.
It is believed the MP was stabbed 'multiple times' while at a constituency meeting.
MPs and MSPs from across Ayrshire have responded to the shocking event and have paid tribute to the MP.
Patricia Gibson, SNP MP for North Ayrshire and Arran, said: "The murder of David Amess MP is very shocking and a direct attack on democracy.
"MPs must be able to undertake their duties without the threat or fear of violence.
"My thoughts and prayers are with David’s family and his loved ones at this very sad and difficult time.”
This is absolutely awful news. MPs need to be able to undertake their duties without facing such dangers. My thoughts and prayers are David and his family at this distressing time. https://t.co/mL12VBqyxy
— Patricia Gibson MP (@PGibsonSNP) October 15, 2021
Elena Whitham, SNP MSP for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley, said: "This is truly awful. My thoughts and condolences are with David’s family, friends and colleagues."
This is truly awful. My thoughts and condolences are with David’s family, friends and colleagues.
Posted by Elena Whitham MSP on Friday, 15 October 2021
Before the news of his death broke, Carol Mochan, Labour MSP for South Scotland, said: "Terrible news, we can only hope David can recover. All of UK Labour thoughts are with him. A cowardly attack."
Terrible news, we can only hope David can recover. All of @UKLabour's thoughts are with him. A cowardly attack. https://t.co/PgJ5VdXj1Y
— Carol Mochan MSP (@CMochan) October 15, 2021
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon described the MP's death as "awful beyond words". She also sent her "deepest condolences" to his loved ones.
This is awful beyond words. My thoughts and deepest condolences are with David’s family, friends and colleagues. May he rest in peace. https://t.co/qRO3Hgbk6q
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) October 15, 2021
Conservative MSP for West Scotland, Jamie Greene, also paid tribute.
Rest In Peace, Sir David Amess MP. https://t.co/uDakQ2pyvq
— Jamie Greene MSP (@jamiegreeneUK) October 15, 2021
Siobhian Brown, MSP for Ayr, said "no-one should go to work and not return."
My thoughts are with David's family, friends and colleagues during difficult this time. No-one should go to work and not return home 💔
Posted by Siobhian Brown MSP on Friday, 15 October 2021
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here