Security measures at Ann Widdecombe's home in Haytor, Devon, have reportedly been strengthened to prevent visitors from 'taking selfies' after she was found dead there in July. Large wooden gates have been installed across the entrance to the property, secured by a thick chain and padlock, according to The Sun.
Widdecombe, 78, a former Conservative MP, MEP, and minister, was a Reform UK spokesperson when she died on July 8 after being hit over the head with a hammer 21 times at her home on Dartmoor. The property quickly became a major crime scene as police officers swarmed the area.
Visitors Drawn to the Scene
One villager said that since police left the scene, it has 'attracted lots of people wanting selfies outside or just trying to stare through the windows', reports Devon Live. The villager added that the 'Widdecombe's Rest' sign has also 'disappeared' after it was removed from the property.
Joshua Kerry, 28, of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, is accused of Widdecombe's murder. He also faces a charge of preparing terrorist acts, including an allegation that he attempted to break into Nigel Farage's home.
Trial Date and Security Review
Following a hearing at the Old Bailey in July, a provisional trial date was listed for June 8, 2027. Last week, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said security arrangements for high-profile public figures, including politicians and royals, will be reviewed urgently after the killing of Widdecombe and other recent events.
Mahmood told MPs that dedicated police support will be expanded to cover former MPs, party spokespeople, and others not already covered. She voiced her 'sympathy and solidarity' with Nigel Farage after it was alleged that the man suspected of murdering Widdecombe had travelled to his home more than a year earlier.
She said: "Those who enter public life do so to serve. Robust debate and criticism are part of the job. Threats, abuse and violence are not. An attack on any individual in public life is an attack on every one of us, and it is an attack on democracy itself."
Review Led by Sir Stephen Lovegrove
Mahmood added: "We owe it to those public servants we have tragically lost, and to everyone who believes in a fair and open country, to ensure those who serve receive the protection they deserve."
The review will be carried out by Sir Stephen Lovegrove, who will examine whether there is adequate protection for those most at risk, including "high-profile individuals" such as royals, government ministers, MPs, councillors, and other political figures. Mahmood told the Commons it will build on the work of Sir Robert Buckland, who is conducting a separate review into the murder of Sir David Amess.
