Ann Widdecombe: police believe former MP was attacked almost 24 hours before being found dead – as it happened
Former MP Ann Widdecombe Attacked Nearly a Day Before Body Discovery, Police Confirm
Ann Widdecombe - Devon and Cornwall authorities have released fresh details regarding the tragic death of Ann Widdecombe, revealing that the 78-year-old politician likely suffered an assault almost twenty-four hours prior to her body being located. Assistant chief constable Matt Longman provided an updated account of events, clarifying the timeline that has emerged from ongoing investigations into the former Conservative minister's passing.
Ambulance personnel contacted officers at Miss Widdecombe's residence in Haytor at approximately 11:40am on Thursday, July 9. Upon arrival, emergency responders discovered the elderly woman deceased inside the property. She had clearly endured significant trauma before her death. According to the force's current understanding, the violent incident occurred on Wednesday, July 8, at roughly 12:30pm.
Investigation Progress and Suspect Description
Longman emphasized that detectives are working swiftly to identify those responsible. "Our inquiries are moving at pace for a suspect who is believed to be a white male," he stated during his briefing. The assistant chief constable confirmed that the death is being handled as a suspicious incident, though he reassured the public that authorities do not perceive any broader threat to community safety.
Earlier communications from the police force indicated that terrorism was not a factor in this case. Furthermore, no evidence has surfaced suggesting the crime carried political motivations. In a development this morning, investigators announced that a twenty-six-year-old individual, who had been detained on suspicion of murdering Widdecombe, has been freed from custody and is no longer connected to the probe.
A protective cordon continues to surround the property as forensic specialists conduct thorough examinations of the scene. Road restrictions have been implemented in the vicinity to facilitate the investigation. Members of the public can expect to observe a substantial police presence while detectives and uniformed officers carry out door-to-door interviews and review closed-circuit television footage from the area.
Tributes and Last Known Activities
Forensic teams have been documented working at Widdecombe's home, while well-wishers have gathered nearby to leave flowers and honor her memory. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage was also photographed placing blooms at Dartmoor national park, situated close to the former politician's residence. Widdecombe had become associated with the Brexit party, which subsequently evolved into Reform UK, during 2019.
On the morning of Wednesday, Widdecombe made her final television appearance on TalkTV, speaking shortly after 8am. During this broadcast, she commended Farage's choice to initiate a byelection within his Clacton constituency, describing it as "the sort of decision taking that is needed in the leader of the country." Following this appearance, ITV News reported that she engaged in conversation with a researcher from Channel 5's Matt Allwright program before a scheduled interview at 1pm.
Her last communication with the Channel 5 staff member was recorded at 12:19pm. When the researcher attempted to reach her again at 12:48pm to request participation via Zoom, she failed to respond. Executives at the network eventually contacted her agent after multiple attempts to establish contact proved unsuccessful. Producers expressed concern, noting that such silence was highly unusual for the regular television panelist.
Driver Recalls Her Contentment
Peter Horrell, Widdecombe's personal driver of ten years, shared his reflections with reporters after depositing flowers outside her Haytor home. He described the news of her passing as "very sad" and characterized her as a "great lady" who possessed both humor and grounded sensibilities. Horrell recalled their final working encounter, during which he transported her to Yeovil in Somerset.
Not really, she seemed quite happy living up here by herself. You never expect it, do you? Well I certainly didn't. You know, very sad.
When questioned about whether she had ever voiced worries regarding her personal security, Horrell responded that she had not. He noted that she thoroughly enjoyed residing in the region, frequently walking across the moors and utilizing the swimming pool she installed at the rear of her property. On occasions when she returned home later than expected, she would typically enjoy a glass of brandy before taking a swim.
She loved walking up on the moors and, as you know, she got a swimming pool at the back. So if she come back late or late-ish she'd always have the brandy and go for a swim. She was a great lady, very kind.
Horrell concluded by expressing his gratitude for having known her, stating that it was "absolutely a privilege to take" her on journeys during his decade of service. The investigation remains active as authorities continue their efforts to bring those responsible to justice.