The precise medical cause of death for former Conservative MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe has not yet been established, the opening of an inquest at Exeter Coroner's Court heard on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. The 78-year-old was found dead at her home, Widdecombe's Rest, in Haytor Vale on Dartmoor, Devon, on July 9, after concerns were raised when she became uncontactable.
Details of the Discovery
Senior coroner Philip Spinney told the brief hearing that an employee of Miss Widdecombe was asked to carry out a welfare check after she could not be reached. The employee found her unresponsive with visible injuries. Emergency services were called, but she was pronounced dead at 12:20 pm on July 9.
Mr Spinney stated: "A post-mortem examination has taken place and at this stage the precise medical cause of death has yet to be established." He added that he would formally suspend the inquest until the conclusion of criminal proceedings.
Murder Charge
A 28-year-old man, Joshua Kerry, has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on July 21, the same day as the inquest hearing. The coroner offered his "deep condolences" to Miss Widdecombe's family.
The inquest was adjourned pending the outcome of the criminal case against Mr Kerry, who is due to appear in court on the murder charge.
