Christian MP Sir David Amess's murderer has been sentenced to life in prison today (April 13)

Ali Harbi Ali brutally stabbed and killed Conservative MP for Southend West outside Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea on 15 October, The Old Bailey heard.

Jurers heard how Ali had gone into the meeting pretending to be an NHS employee moving to the area.

In a statement by the family, read out after the court sentencing by Assistant Commissioner Matt Jukes, he read: "There is no elation in our family today, following this sentencing. 

"Our amazing husband and father has been taken from us, in an appalling and violent manner. 

"Nothing will ever compensate for that, we will wake each day and immediately feel our loss. 

"We will struggle through each day, for the rest of our lives.

"Our last thought before sleep will be of David. 

"We will forever shed tears for the man we have lost.

"We shall never get over this tragedy."

Former MP Anne Widdecombe, a friend of Sir David, said about Ali Harbi Ali: "'That man didn't get his martyrdom but instead more than half a century of incarceration."

MP Anna Firth released a statement saying her thoughts and prayers are for Sir David's family. 

Within the statement it read: "On behalf of the people of Southend West I am very pleased that a full life order has been imposed for the horrific and senseless murder of Sir David Amess. 

"Sir David was a wonderful MP who represented the very best of our democratic system, exceptionally kind, decent, a friend to all, his dedication to his constituents was second to none. 

"It has been an enormous privilege to follow in his footsteps and he remains sorely missed, but today all our thoughts and prayers are with Lady Amess and her five children."