Jeremy Clarkson has lashed out at Reform UK leader Nigel Farage over his tribute to Ann Widdecombe following her murder, fuming: “What on earth has happened?” In his latest column for The Sun, the Clarkson's Farm star accused Farage of “picking a fight with the establishment” in the wake of Widdecombe’s death.
Clarkson's Criticism of Farage's Actions
Clarkson wrote that while Farage is an “extremely skilled politician” who is “quick on his feet,” he took offence to what he described as a “tantrum” after calling a by-election in Clacton, where Farage is set to face off against novelty candidate Count Binface. Clarkson joked: “He’s ended up in a fight with a pedal bin.”
Clarkson also criticised Farage’s visit to Widdecombe’s home with flowers, saying: “Just a few days later, he then went down to poor Ann Widdecombe's house with some flowers. Nothing wrong with that, of course. But he was seen not doing anything with them until the news cameras were rolling.” He fumed: “That’s not a good look, I’m afraid. He used to be savvier than this.”
Mourners Pay Tribute to Ann Widdecombe
Mourners, including Farage, brought flowers to Ann Widdecombe’s property in Dartmoor after her death. Reform politicians Lee Anderson, Danny Kruger, Richard Tice, and Zia Yusuf were also in attendance. Tice said at the time: “We have so much to learn from our Ann. She would quite happily go the length and breadth of the country, to send a message, to speak to people who wanted to hear from her.”
Clarkson continued: “It’s unbelievable that someone would want to do this to Ann. I spoke to her last Monday – it was a good, proper conversation, and then I had a nice text message on Tuesday, and then Thursday we heard the news. Initially, you assume she’s had a terrible stroke, or whatever, and then the further news comes out.” He added: “I had a call from the Chief Constable telling me that there was going to be a press conference, and to prepare for the worst on Friday.”
