MPs have been paying tribute to Sir David Amess who died after being stabbed multiple times at his constituency surgery.

Ilkley's MP Robbie Moore described Sir David as an "exceptionally kind, wonderful man" and said his murder was sickening.

He tweeted: "David Amess was doing what we all do as MPs - helping his constituents. A kind and wonderful and dedicated man.

"His murder is sickening and senseless.My thoughts go out to his whole family, especially his wife Julia."

In an earlier tweet he said"Absolutely horrendous news. Sir David is an exceptionally kind, wonderful man, and is incredibly dedicated to his constituents.

"My thoughts are with him and his family."

Pudsey, Horsforth and Aireborough MP Stuart Andrew tweeted: "I am at a loss for words.

To lose another valued colleague like Sir David Amess, in such awful circumstances, is hard to comprehend.

"Sir David’s near 40 years of public service was an immeasurable contribution. He will be deeply missed."

After reports of the stabbing Leeds North West MP Alex Sobel tweeted: "My thoughts and prayers with David and his family."

The Jo Cox Foundation issued a statement saying: "We are devastated to hear the news of the death of Sir David Amess MP. We send our deepest sympathies to his family, loved ones, staff and colleagues.

"All elected representatives deserve to be safe, and to be treated with respect.Violence and abuse against them is utterly unacceptable. It endangers people and their families, and it endangers democratic life."

"The Jo Cox Foundation is committed to working towards a future where no politician is subject to violence or intimidation.

"The Right Hon Jacqui Smith, Chair of the Jo Cox Foundation said: 'This is a tragic loss for those who knew and loved Sir David - my heart goes out to them. I knew him as a generous and dedicated colleague in Parliament. Public life must be safe for those we ask to serve in our democracy - that is a responsibility for us all'."

David Amess, 69, died after being stabbed multiple times.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".

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

Labour MP Jo Cox died in 2016 after being shot and stabbed multiple time in Birstall.

Cllr James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: “This is unspeakably awful news and my thoughts are with Sir David Amess’ family and office staff.  It is inconceivable that in a democratic society or indeed anywhere that elected representatives serving their constituents should be in danger. 

“There is no place for intimidation or violence in the bond between communities and the people who are elected to serve them and as a council we will be redoubling our efforts to ensure our elected representatives and their staff feel as supported as possible in conducting their work without fear or threat.”

Following the death of Sir David Amess the flags at Bradford City Hall and town halls across the district were lowered to half-mast.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Shabir Hussain, said: “I am appalled to learn of this shocking and deplorable act; this is a very dark day for everyone. Our thoughts are, of course, with the family, loved ones and friends of Sir Amess at this dreadful time.”

Leader of Bradford Council, Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, said: “I am so upset to hear of the fatal stabbing of Sir David Amess MP. It is truly shocking. I cannot imagine how grief-stricken his family are. My thoughts and prayers are with them.”

Following the tragic death of Sir David the flags at Bradford City Hall and town halls across the district were lowered to half-mast.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Shabir Hussain, said: “I am appalled to learn of this shocking and deplorable act; this is a very dark day for everyone. Our thoughts are, of course, with the family, loved ones and friends of Sir Amess at this dreadful time.”

Leader of Bradford Council, Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, said: “I am so upset to hear of the fatal stabbing of Sir David Amess MP. It is truly shocking. I cannot imagine how grief-stricken his family are. My thoughts and prayers are with them.”