TRIBUTES are continuing to pour in for Conservative MP Sir David Amess, whose murder is being treated as a terrorist incident by police.

Sir David, 69, was stabbed multiple times at his constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea in Essex yesterday at 12.05pm.

The Metropolitan Police have now said there was a potential link to Islamist extremism.

A 25-year-old British man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder.

Speaking out following Sir David's death, Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane Cllr Onnalee Cubitt described it as "an attack on democracy".

She added: “An attack on our elected representatives is an attack on our democracy. Democracy is precious. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this tragic time.”

Flags were lowered at Hampshire County Council’s headquarters following the MP’s death.

Leader of Hampshire County Council, Cllr Keith Mans paid tribute to his friend. 

He said: “David was a personal friend. I knew him for over 40 years, both as a candidate and later together when we were both MPs in parliament.

“This is a tragic loss and I pass my heartfelt condolences to his wife, his five children and his wider family.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer have laid flowers at the scene this morning.