Southend and District Reform Synagogue Statement on the murder of Sir David Amess MP

We were deeply saddened to hear of the horrific murder of Sir David Amess MP, and send condolences to his family and loved ones. The moving statement below is from Southend and District Reform Synagogue.

On behalf of the leaders and members of Southend and District Reform Synagogue, we wish to express our shock, horror and deep sadness following the murder of Sir David Amess. We also express our sincere and deepest sympathy and condolences to Sir David’s family, and also to his friends and colleagues. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Sir David was an amazing elected representative for his constituents, a wonderful example and model of what a local MP should be. He took time to listen and supported innumerable worthy causes. He was also a man of deep faith who cared, always showing compassion and respect to everyone.

As with the murder five years ago of Jo Cox MP, and attacks on other members of Parliament previously, this vicious and murderous attack highlights the vulnerability of those who serve as our elected representatives.

Sir David was a friend and advocate for so many of us and was always willing to attend special events. He attended special anniversary services, including for our 50th Anniversary soon after he was elected as MP for Southend West, civic services, appeared as a panellist on our Any Questions evenings on more than one occasion and his last visit was for a celebration to honour one of our members who had been active in many local causes.

Along with members of all faiths and other groups, we want to express our gratitude for Sir David’s tireless work, commitment and enthusiasm for so many local projects and worthy causes. He will be truly missed by all of us. He was a tremendous advocate, tireless worker and dedicated ambassador for our city and an inspirational human being we are proud to be able to call him our friend.

We affirm our commitment to free and open engagement of people in a safe democratic society. We oppose all hatred, division and extremism and all actions that harm our world. We hope to continue to model the openness to exchange and the spirit of integrity and commitment that both Sir David and Jo Cox shared: “We have far more in common than that which divides us”.

Thank you Sir David, may you rest in peace.