The Maidstone and Weald MP Helen Grant has paid an emotional tribute to a 'devoted' mum and public servant who was shot dead in her constituency.

Labour MP Jo Cox died after being shot and stabbed shortly after holding a constituents' surgery in Birstall, West Yorkshire, yesterday.

Tributes have been paid around the world, including by Prime Minister David Cameron and US presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton.

Today, Mrs Grant released a statement in honour of the 41-year-old mother-of-two.

She said: "I heard the dreadful news that Jo had died on the radio yesterday afternoon when I was on the way to an Amnesty International event in Maidstone High Street.

"To be honest I am still in shock and this will take some time to come to terms with.

"I didn’t know her well but on the occasions we were together she shone as a very bright light, with a rare warmth and energy.

"We have lost a powerful advocate for many of the things that I hold dear" - Helen Grant MP

"Only last week we were both together as members of the Women’s House of Commons tug of war team, raising funds for Macmillan. There she was at the front of the rope leading the fight.

"We have lost a powerful advocate for many of the things that I hold dear – championing equality and diversity, exposing bigotry and racism, combatting hatred and promoting social cohesion.

"I will continue to fight for those causes fortified by the memory of Jo and her tragic death."

She added that she have previously been concerned about travelling on public transport after voting on controversial issues.

The Conservative MP said: "Democracy has to continue and constituents have got to have access to those who represent them.

"Thankfully I have been spared physical abuse, so far, in surgeries but like other MPs I do encounter aggression, mainly via social media, but also on the doorstep.

"You have to have a thick skin but it is still upsetting receiving abuse from people who you've never met and who know nothing about you."

She has been in discussion with Chief Insp Dave Pate to discuss security issues.

The Conservative Party has announced it will not contest Mrs Cox's seat.

A 52-year-old man is being questioned on suspicion of murder.