Former Conservative MP and Strictly Come Dancing star Ann Widdecombe has died at the age of 78, with Devon and Cornwall Police investigating the circumstances of her death amid suspicious circumstances, according to multiple reports.
Police Investigation Underway
Detectives from Devon and Cornwall Police are reportedly looking into the matter, with the force expected to release a public statement on Friday afternoon (July 10). The 78-year-old politician, who defected from the Conservatives to Reform UK, was discovered dead at her Devon home, reportedly on Wednesday (July 9).
Management Confirms Death
A statement from her management read: "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."
A statement from Cloud9 Management, who had represented her for more than a decade, said she would be missed "greatly". It continued: "Her life and career were driven by her strong Christian values and commitment to public service. She loved the cut and thrust of political debate and, 16 years after leaving Parliament, was still actively campaigning for Reform UK and offering forthright views on the hot topics of the day across numerous radio and television programmes. Ann was a valued patron of many causes, particularly her animal charities. As Ann once said on The Graham Norton Show, 'we get one go this side of eternity, one go. Life is not a dress rehearsal, you take opportunities that you like and you go for it, that's my philosophy'."
