Devon and Cornwall Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, 78, whose body was discovered with serious injuries at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor, on 9 July 2026. Officers were called to the property at around 11:40 a.m. after the ambulance service reported a medical emergency. Widdecombe was found deceased with a serious head wound, and a post-mortem examination is pending.
Police Appeal for Information on White Male Suspect
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson stated that the murder enquiry is in its early stages but progressing rapidly. Police believe the suspect is a white male and are urging anyone with information, particularly those who saw suspicious activity near Haytor Vale or Haytor, to come forward. Officers are especially keen to obtain CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage that could assist the investigation. A cordon remains in place at the property, and road closures are in effect while forensic examinations continue.
Carer Discovered Body, Police Rule Out Accident
According to The Sun, Widdecombe's body was found by a carer who worked for her, who was spoken to by officers at the scene. Police are investigating whether the death resulted from an accidental fall or an attack. Widdecombe's management at Cloud9 Management declined to comment on the investigation. The police have warned against speculation on social media, calling it harmful to the investigation and distressing to the family.
Tributes from Political Figures and Co-Stars
Widdecombe served as Conservative MP for Maidstone from 1987 to 2010, later joining Nigel Farage's Brexit Party in 2019 and serving as an MEP for South West England until 2020. She backed Reform UK in 2023 and served as the party's justice and immigration adviser. A Downing Street spokesperson said Prime Minister Keir Starmer was saddened by her death, praising her as a distinctive figure in British politics. Kemi Badenoch paid tribute to a 'formidable politician,' while Nigel Farage called her an 'incredibly loyal ally' and an 'absolute force of nature.'
Farage told TalkTV: 'She was an absolute force of nature. She never let anyone… with any doubt in their minds at all where she stood on all the great issues of the day, and she was formidable too.' He added that her move to the Brexit Party was a significant moment in political history. Former Strictly Come Dancing partner Anton Du Beke called her a 'real friend,' and Piers Morgan described her as 'a wonderfully no-nonsense, straight-talking, highly opinionated British battle-axe.'
Media Career and Legacy
Beyond politics, Widdecombe gained fame on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, finishing ninth with Du Beke. She later placed second on Celebrity Big Brother in 2018, fronted documentaries, and appeared on shows such as Have I Got News For You and The Chase. She also hosted her own quiz show, Cleverdicks, on Sky Atlantic. Her team at Cloud9 Management said she 'loved the cut and thrust of political debate' and was a 'consummate professional.' The investigation continues, with police urging anyone with information to contact them.
