KEIGHLEY MP Robbie Moore has spoken of his shock following the fatal stabbing today of fellow Conservative Member of Parliament, Sir David Amess.

Mr Moore described the death as "a senseless tragedy".

Sir David, the MP for Southend West, was stabbed during a constituency surgery at a church in Leigh, Essex.

Mr Moore said: "Sir David's murder is a senseless tragedy. He was an exceptionally kind, wonderful man, and was incredibly dedicated to his constituents in Southend.

"He was doing what all MPs do – week in, week out – serving their constituents. My thoughts are with his whole family, especially his wife Julia and their five children.

"May he rest in peace."

Flags at City Hall in Bradford and at the district's town halls, including Keighley, are being flown at half-mast in tribute.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Shabir Hussain, said: “I was appalled to learn of this shocking and deplorable act; this is a very dark day for everyone. Our thoughts are, of course, with the family, loved ones and friends of Sir Amess at this dreadful time.”

Bradford Council leader, Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, said: "I am so upset to hear of the fatal stabbing of Sir David Amess MP. It is truly shocking. I cannot imagine how grief-stricken his family is. My thoughts and prayers are with them.”

Worth Valley councillor Rebecca Poulsen, leader of the Conservative group on Bradford Council, said she was "stunned and mortified" by what had happened.

She added: "It is widely known that Sir David Amess was 'one of the good guys' in British politics and I am struggling to comprehend that such a gentleman, who worked tirelessly for his constituents and took time out to speak to the most disadvantaged of people such as the homeless and even aided stray animals, has had his life ended in such a way.

"The thoughts of myself and my colleagues in the Conservative group are with all those who are dear to him, at this saddest of times. 

"There are no words to accurately express our sympathies to everyone who loved and appreciated him."