Former Conservative Party minister Ann Widdecombe was found dead in her Dartmoor house, leading police to launch a murder investigation. Her death was announced by her management on Friday morning (July 9), and police said the 78-year-old was "located deceased" in her home and had "sustained serious injuries." Devon and Cornwall Police stated they are hunting a "white male" suspect, with detectives from the Force Major Crime Investigation Team conducting "extensive enquiries" into the circumstances surrounding the death.
Tributes from Co-stars Reveal Her True Character
Radio presenter Russell Grant shared a fond memory of working with Ann on social media, explaining why she was a "marmite figure." He penned a lengthy post on X detailing his time with her on Strictly Come Dancing. Grant said: "The one thing I noticed about Ann then is that whatever she does, it is in earnest. It's important to her that she does her best. She believes wholeheartedly in what she believes in - no holds barred."
Grant continued: "That made her a marmite figure. Love her or hate her, it was Strictly where she won the hearts of the many whom she lost in other facets of life. Then came Strictly, we spent many times together in rehearsals for Strictly Children in Need, photo calls and idle time chatting over a coffee. We got on. She never laughed; she always guffawed."
He added: "Ann could easily have been written into a PG Wodehouse story or the eccentric lady in an Agatha Christie. I liked her, but not all her views. But I came out of our short time working together with a good deal of respect for the way she threw herself into anything and everything, no holds barred. We share one thing, and that is our faith, so I know that Ann has returned home and is already at peace."
Narinder Kaur Recalls Polite Encounters
Broadcaster Narinder Kaur recalled meeting Ann at the Jeremy Vine show. She reshared a post from Jeremy Vine & Daytime on 5, writing: "I met Ann a few times in the green room at Jeremy Vine. She was always ALWAYS polite. Took an interest and was hugely engaging. My condolences to all her family and friends."
Political and Public Reaction
Prime Minister Keir Starmer earlier spoke to the media, calling the murder investigation "shocking news." He said: "My thoughts are with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this awful time. Ann was a distinguished politician for many years with many achievements." Starmer also urged the public to "rise above political differences and divide" and to help the police identify the suspected individual.
Tributes poured in for the former MP, MEP, and Brexit champion, highlighting her polarising yet dedicated public service career.
