Sir David Amess, RIP

Sir David, 2nd right, on board Endeavour with the Mayor of Southend, John Lamb

All of us at the Leigh-on-Sea Endeavour Trust were shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the murder of Sir David Amess MP during a constituency meeting on the 15th October at the hands of an Islamist extremist.

Whether or not one shared his political views, Sir David was personable and approachable to all, and a good constituency MP.

Sir David was the President of the Trust for many years and was a good friend to Endeavour, always happy to support us in our efforts to restore and maintain her as a living memorial to the fishing industry of Leigh and the heroism and sacrifice of those Leigh men that went to Dunkirk in Britain's hour of need.

Sir David was happy to give of his time and knowledge to the Trust and it would be much poorer but for his assistance and support. He will be sorely missed by us all.

Sir David's last meeting with Endeavour occurred during her trip out to the Pier to mark the HMS Leigh—Bravest Pier in the World event.

The Trust's Chairman, David Norman, said, "Sir David was an enthusiastic support of Endeavour from the outset. We shall greatly miss our President."

Trustee Mike King added, "Sir David had been involved from the very early days of The Leigh-on-Sea Endeavour Trust and was always extremely supportive of the work we do.

"He was specifically interested to speak with people who had travelled on the boat and to hear of their experiences. and what she was like. He supported our events and would  always visit Endeavour when she was at Bell Wharf for the Regatta. We'll miss him."

Endeavour flew the Red Ensign at half mast for a week after his death as a mark of respect to Sir David.

Please note: This article replaces the Trust's original post from the time of Sir David's death, with the version that appeared in the newsletter, which contained more information.