Dan Walker took to social media to clarify his Channel 5 news programme's coverage of former MP Ann Widdecombe's murder, calling it 'really sad' and 'horrible' to think about what she endured.
Walker's clarification on social media
On Saturday, July 11, Walker posted on X, formerly Twitter, to address a statement made on his show. He explained: 'Ann was due to appear on 5 Daytime on Wednesday afternoon but stopped responding to messages and didn't turn up for the show. The team contacted her agent to ask them to check in on her. This information has been passed to police as it's part of the investigation.'
Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor, on Thursday morning with serious injuries. Police were called by the ambulance service at around 11:40 BST. A murder investigation was launched, and a 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder but later released, police announced on Saturday.
Reaction from the entertainment world
Walker and Widdecombe both appeared on the BBC talent show Strictly Come Dancing. Walker finished fifth in 2021 with partner Nadiya Bychkova, while Widdecombe placed sixth in 2010 alongside now-judge Anton Du Beke. Du Beke expressed his 'devastation' on X, writing: 'I had the most brilliant time with Ann on Strictly Come Dancing; she became a real friend. She was fun, she was upbeat, she was positive, she was supportive, she was game; wanted to enter into the spirit of the whole thing.'
Police investigation and family tribute
Widdecombe's death was announced on Friday morning by her management team, who said: 'It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG. We send our deepest condolences to Ann's family and friends. We ask that the family's wish not to be contacted at this sad time is respected.'
Police have urged anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues. 5 News Weekend airs at 6:55pm on Channel 5.
