TRAFFORD'S MPs have expressed shock after Sir David Amess was stabbed to death on Friday.

The Conservative MP for Southend West was attacked during a meeting with constituents at Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.

Essex Police were called at around 12.05pm and arrested a 25-year-old man on suspicion of murder.

The attack has since been declared a terrorist incident.

Responding to the attack, Altrincham and Sale West MP Sir Graham Brady, who is also the chairman of the Conservative Party's 1922 Committee, told The Messenger it was 'a terrible shock'.

He said: "David was a good friend for 25 years. His death is a terrible shock.

"Losing him in such a violent way makes it even harder to come to terms with.

"He was always kind, always interested in other people.

"David's wife and family are in my thoughts and prayers.

"Southend has lost a fine Member of Parliament and we have all lost a warm, decent, big-hearted man."

Wythenshawe and Sale East MP Mike Kane, who knew Sir David through the cross-party Catholic Legislators' Network, said: "David was such a lovely presence around the house.

"I was honoured to spend time with him in Rome for the beatification of Henry Newman. May he rest in peace."

Stretford and Urmston MP Kate Green added: "I am deeply shocked and saddened at this terrible news. David was a kind and lovely colleague.

"All my thoughts are with his family and friends at this awful time."