A life-sized statue of murdered MP Sir David Amess has been unveiled on the seafront at Southend almost three years after his death.
The statue of Sir David stands on Chalkwell seafront in his home city overlooking the estuary and pier his favourite parts of the city.
The late Conservative MP’s widow, Lady Julia Amess said: “It was crucial to ensure that the location was perfect, as I know David would have settled for nothing less,
“Being able to incorporate all of David’s favourite aspects of Southend, but especially the seafront played a key part in the choosing of this location and it’s one I am sure he would have loved.
“I hope that the statue will serve as a reminder of David’s total dedication to the city of Southend and its people. As a family, we are so proud of all he achieved. He is missed every day – but his light remains.”
The veteran MP was a champion of the UK Children’s Parliament a project keenly supported by the Daily Express.
Clark Dearson, the 11-year-old Children’s Prime Minister and Head Boy at Saint Pierre School in Leigh-on-Sea, said: “I know that Sir David was one of the founders of the Children’s Parliament, and worked extremely hard to enable that to happen.
“I feel sad that he passed away before I met him, because I know he helped change things for the better. Even though he is gone his legacy will last and people will continue to be inspired by him to try their hardest and attempt to achieve their dreams”.
Sir David, 69, was stabbed to death by Islamic extremist Ali Harbi, then 26, while holding his weekly constituency surgery in October 2021.
The bronze statue depicting Sir David wearing a suit and tie was designed by British sculptor Andrew Lilley and stands on top of a plinth, surrounded by rose bushes which were Sir David’s favourite.
The unveiling was attended by a number of dignitaries including Dame Priti Patel and the former MP Ann Widdecombe.
