A 28-year-old man was arrested in South Yorkshire on Saturday evening on suspicion of the murder of former MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe, Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed. The suspect, a white British national, is in police custody.
Discovery of Body
Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor at approximately 11:40am on Thursday, July 10, after sustaining serious injuries. Police believe she was attacked on Wednesday at around 12:30pm.
Her family has been informed of the arrest. The arrest was carried out by Counter Terrorism Policing North East and South Yorkshire Police on behalf of Devon and Cornwall Police.
No Terrorism Link
Devon and Cornwall Police stated: “At this time, there is still no information to suggest that this is a terrorism-related incident and as a force we retain primacy of the investigation.” The force previously said there was no indication of a terrorism link.
Political Career and Public Life
Widdecombe was first elected as a Conservative MP for Maidstone in Kent in 1987. She later served as an MEP for the Brexit Party and as a spokesperson for Reform UK. Beyond politics, she gained fame on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.
Tributes and Security Concerns
Her personal driver of 10 years, Peter Horrell, laid flowers at her home on Saturday, saying she “never mentioned any fear” for her safety and loved living in Haytor. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage also visited the village to pay tribute. Following her death, Reform UK MPs have been provided with 24-hour security, paid for by the party, due to fears of similar attacks.
Last Known Communication
ITV News reported WhatsApp messages showing Widdecombe stopped responding after the time police believe the attack occurred. She last messaged at 12:19pm on Wednesday, acknowledging a Zoom link for a Channel 5 appearance, but failed to join the call at 12:48pm. The show's host, Matt Allwright, confirmed live at 1:27pm that she was a no-show. Production later contacted her agent.
