Reactions to Ann Widdecombe's Death
Political figures and a television personality have expressed their sorrow and shock following the death of Ann Widdecombe, as authorities investigate the incident as a murder.
Anton Du Beke, who partnered with Widdecombe on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, described himself as devastated by the news, calling it the "saddest of news."
"I had the most brilliant time with Ann on Strictly Come Dancing, she became a real friend, she was fun, she was upbeat, she was positive, she was supportive, she was game, wanted to enter into the spirit of the whole thing,"
Du Beke shared in a video on X shortly before the murder investigation was announced.
Details of the Incident
Widdecombe, aged 78, was discovered in her home in Devon on Thursday morning with severe injuries, according to police reports.
Authorities have arrested a 26-year-old white British man on suspicion of murder.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman informed the press that the case is not being treated as a terrorist act and that there is currently "no information" suggesting a political motive behind the death of the former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman.
Political Leaders Respond
Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, for which Widdecombe served as shadow home secretary from 1999 to 2001, stated that the party was "reeling."
"A very fun and feisty woman who spoke her mind,"
she described Widdecombe as, adding,
"My heart is breaking for her family,"
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer referred to Widdecombe as a "distinguished politician" and characterized her death as a "significant loss."
He called on people to "rise above any political differences," adding that his thoughts are with her family "at this awful time."
Starmer also mentioned having spoken with Speaker of the House of Commons Lindsay Hoyle, Badenoch, Reform UK's Nigel Farage, and MP Andy Burnham to encourage unity.
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, described Widdecombe as "an extraordinary woman" who dedicated her life to public service and advocating for her beliefs.
"A devout Christian and somebody with strong socially conservative views. Perhaps not popular in modern Britain but that is what Ann believed in."
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey called Widdecombe "a woman of deep faith who devoted her life to public service," expressing horror at the possibility that she was murdered.
"My thoughts and prayers are with her family and all who loved her."
Andy Burnham, Labour's likely incoming prime minister, stated,
"Ann gave a lifetime of public service, and it's absolutely right that the police put all their resources into investigating this as swiftly as possible."
Community and Family Statements
Widdecombe's neighbour, Susan Coysh, told the BBC she was "devastated," describing Widdecombe as "a character and a lovely lady."
"I'm shocked. In this lovely setting where we live,"
Coysh said, adding that she last saw Widdecombe at a petrol station 10 days prior.
"We used to say hello. She did keep herself to herself quite a bit... but she was approachable,"
she added.
A statement from Widdecombe's agent, released on Friday morning, announced her death without detailing the circumstances.
Later on Friday, Widdecombe's management issued a follow-up statement:
"We are absolutely devastated by this news following a very traumatic and upsetting 24 hours."
"We fully support the police in their investigations and we reiterate the family's desire not to be contacted at this difficult time."
