Tributes have been paid to the late MP Sir David Amess on the anniversary of his murder one year ago.
Sir David, who represented Southend West, was killed after being stabbed at his constituency surgery in Essex on October 15, 2021.
Ali Harbi Ali was given a whole-life sentence at the Old Bailey in London in April this year after being found guilty of murdering the Conservative politician.
On the first anniversary of his death, a tree was planted in Southend-on-Sea in memory of the MP.
Political leaders paid tribute to their former Westminster colleague, as they reflected on his work representing his constituents.
Prime Minister Liz Truss said: “On the anniversary of Sir David Amess’ death, we cherish his memory and remember his enormous contribution to politics, to the people of Southend and to the country.
“My thoughts today are with his wife Julia, the Amess family and to all those who knew and loved him.”
Labour leader Starmer said Sir David carried out his duties with “consistent kindness” as he remembered the MP.
“Remembering our friend & colleague David Amess on the 1st anniversary of his senseless death,” said Starmer.
“David’s commitment to public service, carried out with inherent, consistent kindness, will forever be admired.”
Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross described Sir David as a “dedicated public servant”.
“One year ago today, my friend and colleague Sir David Amess was brutally murdered doing his job, representing his constituents,” said the Moray MP.
“We lost a great champion and dedicated public servant and his wife Julia, their children and all his friends remain in our thoughts and prayers.”
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson highlighted the issues that Sir David campaigned for.
He said: “On this sad anniversary of the death of Sir David Amess we remember the many good things he stood for: campaigns for animal welfare, city status for Southend and independence for a sovereign parliamentary democracy.
“A legacy that shines bright. Thinking of Julie and the family.”
Former UK health secretary Matt Hancock said that the late MP was a mentor to him.
“Today marks one year since the tragic murder of my friend Sir David Amess,” said Hancock.
“Sir David was a mentor to me and was a selfless public servant who always put the people of Southend first.
“My thoughts are with his friends and family as we remember his extraordinary life of service.”
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar underlined the importance in rejecting hate in politics
“A year on from the death of David Amess, my thoughts are with his friends and family,” said Sarwar.
“I know there’s lots of anger and despair right now, but we should never forget we’re all human.
“We can disagree, even vociferously, but shouldn’t hate. Political opponents maybe, but not enemies.”
The Jo Cox Foundation, established following the murder of Labour MP Jo Cox in 2016, stated that intimidation and violence against elected representatives is a “serious problem”.
“The thoughts of the Jo Cox Foundation team are very much with his family, loved ones and colleagues on this tragic anniversary,” they said.
“It reminds us of the appalling fact that two MPs were murdered in the space of six years.
“The intimidation and violence we see against elected representatives must never be viewed as an inevitable part of our politics.
“It is a serious problem that is harming our democracy and concentrated effort is needed to find solutions.”
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