Sir David Amess MP

It was with profound sorrow that I heard today of the murder of Sir David Amess MP, a longstanding friend and parliamentary colleague.

Just a few weeks ago we shared a platform at the launch of his book Ayes & Ears documenting his political career over nearly four decades and how Parliament and politics have changed. Typically of David, the proceeds of the book were dedicated to three charities: Endometriosis UK, Prost8 and the Leigh-based Music Man Project.

Notwithstanding all the good in the world we still have the capacity to do truly evil things.

This horrific attack has not only robbed David of his life but its reverberations will have devastating consequences for his family and loved ones. My thoughts are with Julia and their children.  May he now rest in peace.