Former Conservative MP and Brexit Party MEP Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor Vale, Dartmoor, on Thursday morning after sustaining serious injuries. Devon and Cornwall Police have arrested a 26-year-old white British man on suspicion of murder.
Arrest and Investigation
Police confirmed the arrest on Friday afternoon. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated that the suspect was arrested at an address in Newton Abbot and remains in custody. A cordon is in place at Widdecombe's property while forensic examinations continue.
Longman emphasized that the case is not being treated as terrorism and there is no information suggesting a politically-motivated crime. He added: “This is an extremely tragic incident. Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Miss Widdecombe in this very difficult time.”
Background on Ann Widdecombe
Born in Bath, Somerset, in 1947, Widdecombe served as Conservative MP for Maidstone and later Maidstone and The Weald for 23 years. She held ministerial roles under John Major, including Minister of State for Employment (1994-1995) and Minister of State for Prisons (1995-1997).
After leaving Parliament, she gained fame on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 and Celebrity Big Brother in 2018. A prominent Brexit supporter, she served as a Brexit Party MEP for South West England from 2019 to 2020. In 2023, she became a Reform UK spokeswoman for immigration and justice.
Reaction to Her Death
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called it “shocking news” and said his thoughts were with her family. He stated: “Ann was a distinguished politician over many, many years with many achievements, and it’s a huge, huge loss.”
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch expressed shock, saying: “I don’t understand how someone could do something so horrific to an elderly person. It was a nasty, horrific attack and my heart is breaking for her family.”
Anton Du Beke, her Strictly Come Dancing partner, shared a video saying: “I had the most brilliant time with Ann… She became a real friend. She was fun. She was upbeat. She was positive. She was supportive.”
Ongoing Police Appeal
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson appealed for information: “I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us.”
