MP David Amess has died after being stabbed multiple times in his constituency.

The Conservative MP for Southend West was stabbed at his constituency surgery in Leigh on Friday October 15.

The surgery was being held at the Belfairs Methodist Church, in Eastwood Road North.

A man reportedly ran into the church before the MP was stabbed "several times".

Sir David, 69, a prominent MP, was a huge member of the Make Southend a City campaign, first for Basildon and then for Southend West since 1997.

Essex Police confirmed a man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

"A man has been arrested on suspicion murder after a man was stabbed in #LeighonSea.

"We were called to Eastwood Road North shortly after 12.05pm.

"Sadly, a man later died. A man was arrested at the scene.

"We are not looking for anyone else."

The response from the Jo Cox Foundation

The stabbing draws comparisons to the murder of MP Jo Cox in 2016 when she was on her way to meet constituents at a surgery in Birtsall, West Yorkshire

The Jo Cox Foundation is horrified to hear the news of the attack on Sir David Amess MP. We are thinking of him, his family and loved ones at this distressing time.

— The Jo Cox Foundation (@JoCoxFoundation) October 15, 2021

A foundation set up in her name reacted to the incident.

They tweeted out: "The Jo Cox Foundation is horrified to hear the news of the attack on Sir David Amess MP.

"We are thinking of him, his family and loved ones at this distressing time.

Politicians pay tribute

Politicians reacted to the attack earlier this afternoon.

SNP Leader Nicola Sturgeon described the news as "dreadful".

"Wishing ⁦@amessd_southend a full and speedy recovery," she added.

Labour Leader Keir Starmer tweeted: "Horrific and deeply shocking news. Thinking of David, his family and his staff."

Deputy Leader of the Labour Party Angela Rayner tweeted out: "I’m horrified by the reports regarding David Amess and an incident at his constituency surgery today.

"We don’t know the details yet but on behalf of all of us in the Labour Party I want to say all of our thoughts are with David and we all hope that he pulls through and is ok."

The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan sent out his thoughts and prayers.

"Truly awful news. My thoughts and prayers are with David Amess MP, his family and the community at this incredibly difficult time," he said.