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Ann Widdecombe is believed by police to have been assaulted nearly a day before her body was discovered. The 78-year-old former Conservative minister was found with severe injuries at her residence in Haytor, Devon, at 11:40 BST on Thursday. Authorities from Devon and Cornwall Police have indicated that the attack likely occurred around 12:30 BST on the previous day, Wednesday. Their investigation is rapidly progressing, and they are searching for a suspect thought to be a white male.
On Saturday morning, police revealed that a 26-year-old white British man who was arrested the day before on suspicion of Widdecombe’s murder had been released and is no longer considered part of the investigation. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman emphasized that the main focus remains on identifying the person or persons responsible and thoroughly reviewing all available evidence. Detectives continue to conduct numerous inquiries, moving swiftly in their efforts. Longman also urged anyone with information, regardless of how trivial it might appear, to come forward and assist with the investigation. However, later on Saturday, the police decided against releasing further details about potential suspects or sharing CCTV footage to avoid compromising their ongoing work.
The scene around Widdecombe’s home has seen a strong police presence, with forensic teams actively working at the property. Local residents and notable figures, including Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, have been seen leaving flowers as tributes. During a police briefing on Friday, Assistant Chief Constable Longman confirmed that terrorism had been ruled out and there was no evidence to suggest that Widdecombe’s death was politically motivated. He also acknowledged it was too soon to determine whether the suspect was someone known to her. Early on Friday, Widdecombe’s management agency announced her death without mentioning any suspicious circumstances, but later that day, police disclosed the murder investigation had been launched.
Tributes poured in from those who knew her personally or lived nearby. Peter Horrall, Widdecombe’s long-time driver, expressed deep disbelief over the attack, describing her as a kind and straightforward woman. Local residents were shaken by the news, with one noting the area’s safety and how unusual such violence was. Neighbors recalled seeing Widdecombe around recently and mourned her loss as the death affected the tight-knit community. Reflections on her personality highlighted that while she was viewed as an outspoken politician, to many she was simply a familiar member of their area.
Widdecombe’s political career spanned decades, beginning as a Conservative MP for Maidstone from 1987 to 2010. After leaving Parliament, she took part in entertainment programs such as BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, where she reached the semi-finals, and Celebrity Big Brother in 2018. In 2019, she joined the Brexit Party, serving as a Member of the European Parliament for South West England until 2020. Later, in 2023, she affiliated with Reform UK, acting as the party’s spokesperson for Immigration and Justice. News of her murder has shocked figures across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer spoke with opposition and party leaders, including Nigel Farage, calling for unity. Former Tory MP Edwina Currie described Widdecombe as “brilliant” and “articulate,” expressing devastation over the circumstances of her death. Broadcaster and ex-MP Gyles Brandreth recalled their long friendship from university days, remembering her as fun and feisty despite political differences
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