Conservative MP Sir David Amess has been described as “extraordinary” and a “wonderfully kind man” by politicians in and around Watford following his death.

The 69-year-old, who has been an MP since 1983, was stabbed several times during an incident at a constituency surgery in Essex.

He was fatally injured at Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea in Essex midday on Friday.

A 25 year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Watford Observer: Police and forensics at the scene: image PAPolice and forensics at the scene: image PA

Watford MP Dean Russell tweeted that Sir David’s death was “heart-breaking and horrific”.

He said: “He was a wonderfully kind man, dedicated Parliamentarian and friend. He was always so generous with his time & advice to myself and colleagues.

“My thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.”

South West Hertfordshire MP Gagan Mohindra said he was “devsatsted” to learn of Sir David’s death.

He tweeted: “My thoughts are with his family and friends at this terrible time. I will miss David terribly, as will my colleagues. He was an extraordinary man who worked so hard for his community. RIP Sir David.”

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said Sir David’s death was “truly shocking”.

He added: “Sir David Amess has died doing his job, serving his constituents. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and all those who knew him.”

Stanborough councillor Tim Williams added: “Shocking, deeply distressing - thoughts and prayers to his family - murdered for doing his job representing the residents of Southend - an honourable and decent MP – RIP.”

Leggatts ward councillor Asif Khan tweeted that Watford Labour will suspend cmapigning this weekend as a mark of respect to Sir David.

He said: “Saddened & shocked by the death of Sir David Amess. When I met him I found him to be thoughtful and respectful person. @WatfordLabour will be suspending our campaigning this weekend as a sign of respect. My condolences go to his family and colleagues.”

Watford Liberal Democrats’ 2019 parliamentary candidate Ian Stotesbury added: “There's no excuse for violence - completely unacceptable. Thoughts very much with Mr Amess.”

Moor Park and Eastbury Three Rivers councillor Reena Ranger tweeted: “Sir David Amess, a consistency MP going about his work helping people - such horrific news and an utterly sad day. My thoughts are with his family. So very sad.”

Hertsmere Borough Council leader Morris Bright added: “Sir David has died. Murdered for doing what he loved doing best, serving his residents in Southend.

“40 years of public service brought to a cruel tragic end. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. This is a sad day for our country.”

Sir David is the second sitting MP to be killed in such circumstances in five years, following the death of Labour MP Jo Cox in 2016 as she attended a constituency surgery.