The funeral service for Ann Widdecombe is scheduled to occur this week at Buckfast Abbey, where she regularly attended worship. The Requiem Mass will take place on August 12, conducted by The Right Reverend David Charlesworth, Abbot of Buckfast.
The update on her private funeral comes days after the investigation into her murder turned a new corner as counter terrorism police confirmed it is looking into an attempted burglary incident. The attempted robbery is connected to the former MP which occurred at an address in Greater London in April last year.
It comes after Ann, 78, was found dead in her Dartmoor, Devon, home on July 9 with serious injuries.
Family's Request for Privacy
In an official announcement on the Abbey's website, Fr Abbot and the Monastic Community of Buckfast declared: "Ann's family are deeply grateful for the many messages of sympathy and support they have received."
The family wish to hold a private Requiem Mass, attended by Ann's closest family and friends, so that they may gather in remembrance and grief with dignity and peace. "The family respectfully request that members of the press do not attend, to preserve their privacy, and to avoid disruption to those attending."
Buckfast Abbey asks the press for understanding and restraint at this time, to respect the family's wishes. There will be no access to the Abbey Church on the day of the Requiem Mass, reports the Devon Live.
Order of Service and Tributes
"The Order of Service will be published online at 9am on the day of the Requiem Mass, and will contain the texts of the Scripture Readings, Prayers, Hymns and musical items to be sung by the Abbey Choir." The abbey has confirmed the order of service can be downloaded here: https://www.buckfast.org.uk/press/.
His Homily delivered at the Requiem Mass will become accessible at 2pm that day, through the identical link. The abbey has confirmed that a "small number of official photographs" from the service will be made available following the funeral. It has also stated that no Book of Condolence will be provided and has respectfully requested that members of the public refrain from bringing floral tributes.
Remembering Ann Widdecombe
Ann was a regular attendee at the Abbey Church, participating in the Sunday Solemn Mass alongside the church's Holy Week and Easter services. Following her passing on July 8 at her Dartmoor residence, Fr Abbot and the Monastic Community of Buckfast paid tribute: "Many in our worshipping community knew her as a kind and warm character. She will be missed and fondly remembered."
Ann was a woman of profound faith, a faith which found expression in the public forum of politics. Ann was unafraid to express her unwavering convictions, formed through her Roman Catholic faith. "She had a sharp intellect and was a dedicated public servant. Fr Abbot and the Monastic Community extend their heartfelt condolences to her family and friends."
Buckfast Abbey houses a community of Roman Catholic Benedictine Monks, who conduct their lives in accordance with the ancient rule of St Benedict. The location holds significant historical value - the original Abbey having been established in 1018 AD by King Cnut - and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
