A neighbour of Ann Widdecombe has reported seeing a man dressed in hiking gear near her home in the early hours before the former Conservative MP was found dead. The body of Miss Widdecombe, 78, was discovered at her property in Haytor, Dartmoor, on Thursday, July 11, 2026, with serious injuries consistent with being repeatedly struck by a blunt object.
Neighbour's Account
The neighbour, who lives adjacent to Miss Widdecombe, told The Sun that they saw a van pull up in the early hours of the day she is believed to have been killed. The man was described as white, British, and wearing walking gear. The sighting has added a new lead to the investigation.
Suspect Released
Devon and Cornwall Police have released a 26-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of Miss Widdecombe's murder. The force confirmed he is no longer a suspect in the case. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated: 'Our priority remains identifying those responsible and ensuring that all available evidence is thoroughly examined.'
Timeline of Attack
Police believe the attack occurred on Wednesday, July 8, at around 12:30 pm, nearly 24 hours before her body was found. Miss Widdecombe had been scheduled to appear on Channel 5's Matt Allwright show on Wednesday but failed to attend, prompting welfare checks. She had also featured on TalkTV earlier that day.
Investigation Ongoing
Detectives are examining CCTV footage from the area, as they believe the killer may have been captured on camera. Assistant Chief Constable Longman said: 'We believe the attack took place on Wednesday July 8 at around 12.30pm. Our inquiries are moving at pace for a suspect who is believed to be a white male.' He added that there is no wider risk to the public.
Background
Ann Widdecombe served as Conservative MP for Maidstone from 1987 to 2010 and held ministerial roles under Sir John Major. After leaving Parliament, she appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, reaching the semi-finals with Anton du Beke. She later joined Nigel Farage's Brexit Party and served as an MEP from 2019 to 2020. More recently, she was a spokesperson for Reform UK and continued her media career.
