Ann Widdecombe's family have announced that a private funeral service will take place in the coming weeks, followed by a public memorial later this year. The former politician and Reform UK spokesperson was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on July 9, after sustaining serious head injuries believed to be caused by a hammer.
Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday charged with her murder. Prosecutors alleged that Widdecombe was eating lunch on July 8 when Kerry arrived at her home and struck her on the head 21 times. A provisional cause of death was given as a blunt force injury to the head.
Family Statement on Funeral Arrangements
Widdecombe's family said in a statement: "We understand that there is significant public interest in the funeral of Ann Widdecombe. A private service for family and close friends will be held in the coming weeks, and invitations for this ceremony have been distributed. A more public memorial will follow later in the year, the details of which will be released in due course. While we are very grateful for the wide expression of condolences, the family would ask that this initial service is limited to those closest to Ann."
Investigation into Possible Motive
Detectives are investigating whether a possible political or terrorist motivation was tied to the killing. Outside of politics, Widdecombe was known for her appearances on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.
