Former Strictly star Ann Widdecombe's death being investigated by police as statement released
Police have said its "murder enquiry is in its early stages"Ann Widdecombe‘s death was announced on Friday morning and police have since confirmed an arrest has been made amid an ongoing investigation.
Following the news of her death, Good Morning Britain hosts Kate Garraway and Ranvir Singh interrupted the ITV breakfast show to tell viewers that former Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother star Ann had died at the age of 78.
It has since emerged that detectives from Devon & Cornwall Police are investigating Ann’s death after she was found at her home in Dartmoor, Devon.
In the latest update, a 26-year-old man has been arrested in connection with Ann’s death, Devon & Cornwall Police confirmed. The force said a white British male is in custody.
They added that the incident is not being treated as terrorism and there is “no information” to suggest it was politically motivated.
Police statement shared on Ann Widdecombe’s death
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said earlier on Friday afternoon: “This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this difficult time.
“Our murder enquiry is in its early stages but moving at a significant pace. We are deploying all of the necessary resources to find out exactly what has happened and to locate the person responsible who we believe to be a white male.
“I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us.
“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the vicinity of Haytor Vale, Haytor, or anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage which could assist with our investigation.
“We have an increased uniformed police presence in the area to both support the investigation and provide reassurance to residents. Anyone with concerns can speak with our officers at the scene.
“We will release further information when we are able to do so. In the meantime I would ask people not to speculate about what might have happened, particularly on social media. This is not only potentially harmful to our investigation but also deeply distressing for family and friends of Ann Widdecombe.”
Following the news of the investigation, Ann’s niece Fiona Martin, 52, told The Telegraph: “It’s still very raw and the family are still processing it. I can’t say any more at this stage.”
Ann Widdecombe’s death halts GMB broadcast today
It comes after GMB announced Ann’s death on Friday morning following a statement from the star’s agent.
The presenters told viewers about the former Conservative minister’s death during the morning programme. A statement released on behalf of her family said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Ann Widdecombe at the age of 78.”
Speaking on GMB, Kate said: “We haven’t heard about a long illness, have we? So I think it took everybody a little bit by surprise. I think she was even still doing various broadcasting things up until recently.”
Ranvir added: “She lived a full life, you can certainly say that. Sad news there that Ann Widdecombe has passed away.”
Who was Ann Widdecombe?
Ann was one of the most recognisable figures in British politics. She served as the Conservative MP for Maidstone from 1987 to 2010.
During John Major’s government, she held ministerial roles including Employment Minister and later Prisons Minister. She later became Shadow Home Secretary under William Hague.
Known for her outspoken views, Ann became one of the Conservative Party’s best-known social conservatives. She campaigned on abortion and opposed the ordination of women priests.
What followed after Ann Widdecombe’s death
After leaving Parliament, Ann built a successful television career. She appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, Celebrity Big Brother and numerous political debate shows.
She later joined Reform UK. There, she became one of the party’s most high-profile figures.
Tributes have already poured in from across the political spectrum following Ann Widdecombe’s death. Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice paid an emotional tribute to his former colleague on GB News.
He described Ann as a “remarkable person” and a “great lady”. He also praised her “remarkable contribution to public life, both in politics and entertaining people”.
He added: “Whether it was in a small meeting or a huge audience of thousands of people, she had everybody listening intently to what she said. That’s a remarkable gift.
“I’m not sure they make them like that anymore… They really don’t.”
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