CEO tribute to Sir David Amess

Myself and the whole of the Ambulance Service are shocked at the events of today and the passing of Sir David.

David was doing what he has done for the last 40 years – being visible, approachable, and meeting with people in his community. He was simply trying to help people at one of his regular surgeries. He was being a model MP and I hope that people reflect on his decades of passionate and dedicated service to the people of Redbridge as a Councillor, and to Basildon, Southend, and Britain as a Member of Parliament – day in, and day out. 

Of course, our thoughts are also with his staff who have lost far more than a boss, and his loved ones who have lost far more than a husband, father and friend. The whole service wants them to know that we stand with them in their grief. 

I would like to thank all members of the “blue-light” family who attended the scene to offer aid. 

On a personal note, I will always fondly remember David’s fierce advocacy of Southend during my time at Southend Hospital and now at the Ambulance Service. I don’t think a month would ever go by without me hearing from David about the experience of a local person with our health services in Southend. David was a fearless campaigner to achieve more for people in our NHS. His personal note to me when I became CEO was something that I took to both be a token of best wishes, and a confirmation that he would be knocking on my door to make sure Southend got the very best!

David’s legacy, as was his life, is one of service to community and country.

Tom Abell, 
Chief Executive Officer

Published 15th October 2021