Ann Widdecombe's family has announced that a public memorial will be held later this year following an outpouring of public support after the former Tory MP was found murdered in her bungalow. The 78-year-old Reform UK spokesperson was discovered dead on July 9, having allegedly been struck in the head with a hammer 21 times.
Family statement on funeral arrangements
In a statement, the family expressed gratitude for the 'wide expression of condolences' but noted that a private service in the coming weeks is invite-only. '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,' the statement read.
Details of the attack
According to prosecutors at Westminster Magistrates' Court, Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, allegedly entered Widdecombe's home while she was eating lunch. A hallway camera captured the suspect entering through the front door and asking, 'Don't suppose you have bank cards and ID?' The court heard that Kerry then allegedly struck Widdecombe on the head 21 times with a hammer, tipped her from her chair, took a wallet from her handbag, and left within two minutes. The Old Bailey later heard that the attack was allegedly 'planned and targeted' with a 'ferocity of violence'. Kerry has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on October 9.
CPS statement on investigation
Frank Ferguson, Chief Crown Prosecutor of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, stated: 'We have decided to prosecute Joshua Kerry for murder following a police investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe in Haytor, Dartmoor. Police enquiries into the defendant’s motives are ongoing, including a potential political or terrorist connection. Our prosecutors have worked closely with the police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court, and we will continue working with them as their investigation progresses. We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial. It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.'
