Forensic officers are combing the home of former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe in Haytor, Devon, after a 26-year-old man was arrested 10 miles away in Newton Abbot on suspicion of her murder. The 78-year-old, who also served as an Express columnist and Reform UK champion, was found dead with serious injuries following what police described as a 'nasty, horrific attack' on Thursday morning.
Devon and Cornwall Police Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said there was 'no information' at this time to suggest the murder was politically motivated, though detectives consulted with counter-terrorism officers as a precaution. 'We remain open-minded throughout the investigation,' Longman told a press conference, adding that the inquiry is 'moving at significant pace.'
Political Leaders Express Shock and Condolences
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called for national unity, saying: 'This is really shocking news, and my thoughts, I think all of our thoughts, will be with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this awful time for them. Ann was a distinguished politician over many, many years with many achievements, and it’s a huge, huge loss.'
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said she was 'stunned' and struggled to find words: 'Ann Widdecombe was a very fun and feisty woman who spoke her mind and she was 78 years old, she was an elderly woman. 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.'
Details of the Attack and Investigation
Ms Widdecombe, who lived alone, was found covered in blood from a head wound by her carer, according to reports. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the circumstances as 'extremely distressing.' Assistant Chief Constable Longman said it was too early to comment on whether the suspect was known to Ms Widdecombe, stating: 'We are deploying all the necessary resources to find out exactly what has happened.'
The arrest was made in Newton Abbot, approximately 10 miles from the victim's home in Haytor, on the edge of Dartmoor. Forensic officers continue to sweep the property for clues.
Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
Longtime friend Edwina Currie, who met Widdecombe at the Oxford Union over 50 years ago, said: 'News that her life ended in this way is just awful, and in fact, my first reaction was oh god, not again. It’s dreadful. She was a remarkable lady. She was a spiky, highly intelligent, very witty, brilliant debater, she was a good person to have on your side. They don’t make them like that anymore.'
Strictly Come Dancing star Anton du Beke, who partnered Widdecombe on the 2010 series, said he was 'devastated.' In a video shared on X, he said: 'I had the most brilliant time with Ann on Strictly Come Dancing. She became a real friend. She was fun. She was upbeat. She was positive. She was supportive. We had an incredible time together and we stayed firm friends. My thoughts go out to all of her nearest and dearest and all her family. This is a sad day and I’m devastated by the news of Ann’s passing but I shall remember her fondly, and miss her.'
A Life in Politics and Television
Ann Widdecombe served as Conservative MP for Maidstone and The Weald from 1987 to 2010, holding ministerial roles including Prisons Minister. A devout Roman Catholic, she was known for her forthright views and never shied from a fight over her beliefs. In 2019, she defected to the Brexit Party and served as a Member of the European Parliament before backing Reform UK. She found fame on reality TV, finishing runner-up on Celebrity Big Brother in 2018 and appearing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010. She moved to Dartmoor in 2008, using proceeds from her TV career to renovate her home.
