Sir David Amess Leigh memorial held to mark three years

Today marks three years since Sir David’s passing and a service of remembrance was held for the former Southend West MP at St Peter’s Catholic Church in Eastwood Road on Sunday afternoon. 

The touching service included readings, prayers as well as a performance from the Music Man Project. 

Precious life - Many attended the event (Image: St Peter's Roman Catholic Church)

Father Jeff Woolnough, who presided over the memorial service, praised the late politician and said the service acted as a way to “keep his memory alive”.

Those in attendance included former Southend West and Leigh Tory MP Anna Firth, current Labour MP David Burton-Sampson and councillors from across the political spectrum. 

Julie Cushion, who worked with Sir David and was a close personal friend, said: “It was important and special to remember a dear friend and a great constituency MP who did so much for the city of Southend. It was also wonderful to have the Music Man Project perform as part of the service who Sir David so adored. We remember especially at this time Lady Julia and the family.”

Service - Father Jeff Woolnough and Bishop David Waller (Image: St Peter's Roman Catholic Church)

MP for Southend West and Leigh, David Burton-Sampson, praised the “amazing legacy” Sir David had left for the city.

He said: “The service was full of wonderful memories, hymns, readings and a touching performance from The Music Man Project. One thing is for sure, Sir David will never be forgotten and has left an amazing legacy for our city.

Memorial - Sir David Amess (Image: PA)

David Stanley, founder of The Music Man Project of which Sir David was president, added: “Sir David was our greatest champion. Since his death, I’ve been determined to show that good will overcome evil and hope can come from tragedy.”

Important - Bishop David Waller taking part in the service (Image: St Peter's Roman Catholic Church)
St Vincent’s Centre manager, Daniel Cauchi, attended the service and described Sir David as an “all rounder with a continuous smile” after his work to help the centre support vulnerable people in the city. Paying respects - Daniel Cuachi (R), St Vincent’s Centre manager (Image: St Peter's Roman Catholic Church)

Daniel Cowan, Labour leader of Southend council, said: “It is hard to believe it is three years since that terrible day which shocked our community and the whole nation, and our thoughts are with his family and friends who are still grieving their loss.”

A flower laying ceremony will be held at his statue on Chalkwell Esplanade at midday today.