The RSPCA is among animal welfare charities to pay tribute to Conservative MP for Southend West Sir David Amess, who was fatally stabbed at his constituency surgery last week.
Animal welfare campaigner Amess, who was president of the RSPCA’s Essex South, Southend and District Branch “will be greatly missed” said the charity.
“We're shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Sir David Amess MP and are sending our sincere condolences to his friends, family, and colleagues,” said RSPCA head of public affairs David Bowles.
“Over the last 38 years as an MP, he's achieved an enormous amount for animals, which we will never forget.
“He always stuck by his principles to get change for animals, whether they were popular or not, be it banning fox hunting or getting better protection for horses.”
The charity also praised his most recent animal welfare work in parliament, including improving conditions for livestock.
Bowles also paid tribute to his support for local campaigns “to transform the lives of animals within his constituency too”.
We are deeply sorry to hear the tragic news that Sir David Amess MP has passed away. As our branch president he cared deeply about all animals.
— RSPCA Essex South (@rspcaessexsth) October 15, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all his friends and family.@amessd_southend @RSPCA_official pic.twitter.com/uvHMDUqUn5
Meanwhile, the Dogs Trust has also praised the animal welfare campaigning of Amess, in particular his support of the charity’s work to end the puppy smuggling trade.
Dogs Trust chief executive Owen Sharp said the charity is “devastated to hear of the death of Sir David”.
“Sir David regularly attended our events, entering his beloved dogs into our Westminster Dog of the Year competition. He also visited and championed his local Dogs Trust rescue centre in Basildon.
"Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and the community he served as their MP. Thank you, Sir David, for caring and for making a difference to the lives of dogs here in the UK."
Sir David Amess, 69, was killed after being stabbed multiple times while meeting constituents in Leigh-on-Sea on Friday. A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the incident.
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