Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has paid tribute to his friend Ann Widdecombe following the news of her death. The former MP was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday, July 9. Devon and Cornwall Police announced on Friday that they are investigating her death as a murder.
Murder Investigation Details
In a statement, police believe the attack occurred 24 hours before Widdecombe's body was discovered. "We believe the attack took place on Wednesday 8 July at around 12.30pm," the statement reads. "Our enquiries are moving at pace for a suspect who is believed to be a white male." Widdecombe was found with serious injuries; police were called to the 78-year-old's home at 11.40am on Thursday by the ambulance service. Next-of-kin have been informed and are supported by specially trained officers.
On Friday, a 26-year-old white British male was arrested in Newton Abbot on suspicion of murder but was released from custody on Saturday morning and is no longer a suspect. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said the case is "not being treated as terrorism" and there is "no information" to suggest it was a "politically-motivated crime."
Craig Revel Horwood's Tribute
Widdecombe appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, partnered with Anton Du Beke, reaching the semi-finals. Revel Horwood worked with her on theatre tours and other projects after her time on the show. Sharing a picture of them dancing, he wrote: "After Ann’s time on Strictly Come Dancing, I had the privilege of working with her for several years on theatre tours and a variety of other projects. During that time, I came to know a woman who bore little resemblance to many of the assumptions I had once made about her.
"Despite the seemingly irreconcilable differences in our political views, I grew to admire and care for her enormously. Ann was warm, wickedly funny, deeply intelligent, and a genuinely joyous presence to be around. Beneath the formidable public persona was a kind and generous spirit, and someone I am proud to have called a friend. What happened to her is unimaginably cruel. No one deserves such a horrific end. Rest in peace, darling Ann. You will be greatly missed."
