Tributes are pouring in for Ann Widdecombe, the former MP and Express columnist, following her death at her home in Dartmoor on Thursday, July 9. Political figures across the spectrum have honoured her decades of public service, commanding presence, and unique independent character.
Political Leaders Pay Respects
Reform leaders Richard Tice, Lee Anderson, Danny Kruger, and Zia Yusuf paid their respects to Widdecombe in Haytor, Dartmoor, on Sunday afternoon. Tice told reporters he last spoke to Widdecombe on July 6 and said he “nearly fell over with shock and horror” when he heard of her death. He told the crowd: “We have lost an absolute colossus, a legend in all our lifetime. Ann Widdecombe was unique, she was adored by millions, she was treasured by millions… She was a remarkable, remarkable figure.”
Tributes from Colleagues
Tobias Ellwood, Conservative MP for Bournemouth and chair of the defence select committee, also paid tribute to Widdecombe. He told GB News: “She had a commanding presence in the Commons. We have monitors which tell you who is speaking in the Chamber. When her name flashed up, people would drop what they were doing and go in to hear what she was saying. She had this elder grandee-statesman character in the party and everyone respected her. That's very much missed now.”
Local Councillor Reflects
A senior Reform UK councillor in Sunderland, Andrew Ramsey, shared his own tribute on social media. He said on X: “Over the past couple of days, I have taken some time to reflect before commenting following the tragic death of Ann Widdecombe. Some moments deserve reflection before words. Ann Widdecombe was undoubtedly one of the defining political figures of her generation. She served in public life for decades with conviction, determination and a willingness to stand firmly by what she believed. Politics will always involve differences of opinion, but it should also recognise those who have dedicated so much of their lives to public service. Today, my thoughts are with her family, friends and all who knew her. Rest in peace.”
Murder Investigation Underway
Following the discovery of Widdecombe’s body, Devon and Cornwall Police launched a murder investigation. Detectives revealed the attack likely took place 24 hours before she was found. Shortly before midnight on July 11, police arrested a 28-year-old white British national in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, hundreds of miles away from the crime scene. Detectives confirmed they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the former MP's death. On Monday, it emerged counter terrorism police are now leading the investigation after “new information and evidence has come to light.” Police continue to investigate the suspect's motive while urging the public to stop speculating online, calling such rumours unhelpful and deeply distressing to Widdecombe’s family.
