LOCAL politicians have paid tribute and spoken of their shock following the news that an MP has died after being stabbed multiple times as he met with constituents.

Conservative MP for Southend West, Sir David Amess, 69, was stabbed earlier today during a constituency surgery meeting – which MPs regularly hold with local voters across the country – at Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.

He was treated by emergency services but died at the scene.

Following the news, local members of Parliament have taken to Twitter to speak of their shock and pay tribute.

Conservative MP for Montgomeryshire, Craig Williams wrote: “Heartbroken. Genuinely one of the nicest colleagues. All my love to his family and team.”

MP for Preseli Pembrokeshire Stephen Crabb, also of the Conservative party, tweeted: “Love and prayers for the family of Sir David Amess MP this afternoon. Just devastating. Funny, wise, compassionate, and such a good friend to so many of us.”

Plaid Cymru MP for Dwyfor Meirionnydd, Liz Saville Roberts, Ceredigion MP, Ben Lake and Arfon MP Hywel Williams, released a joint statement following the news, saying: “We are saddened and outraged by this horrific act of violence against a dedicated Member of Parliament while working for his constituents in his community.

"It is deeply shocking that two MPs have now been killed in their constituencies in the last five years.

“Sir David Amess was a true parliamentarian, whose kind words of advice helped many a new member find their feet in Westminster. His contributions in the House were always considered and valuable.

“This is a loss for all of us in Parliament and to public life, but the loss will be particularly painful for his family, friends and colleagues, to whom we send our sincere condolences.”

Wales’ First Minister, Mark Drakeford wrote: “Deeply saddened to hear about the death of Sir David Amess. A truly despicable and horrifying act.

“My thoughts are with his friends, family, and constituency staff during this distressing time.”

Ceredigion MS and Llywydd at the Senedd also paid tribute, saying: “I’m deeply shocked and saddened by the death of Sir David Amess. "Our democratic process depends on our elected members being able to listen and talk to the public we serve.

"It should go without saying that every elected member should be able to carry out this work safely and without fear.

"As members we may have different views, but we are always united in our respect for the democratic process and our commitment to serving the public.

"My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues.”

"A man has been arrested on suspicion murder after a man was stabbed in Leigh-on-Sea," Essex Police said in a statement.

"We were called to an address in Eastwood Road North shortly after 12.05pm today (Friday 15 October).

"We attended and found a man injured. He was treated by emergency services but, sadly, died at the scene.

"A 25 year-old man was quickly arrested after officers arrived at the scene on suspicion of murder and a knife was recovered. He is currently in custody.

"We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident."