Devon and Cornwall Police have released a 26-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murdering former Conservative MP and Brexit Party MEP Ann Widdecombe. The man is no longer part of the investigation, officers confirmed on Saturday.
Death at Home in Dartmoor
Miss Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday after sustaining serious injuries. She had a prominent political career, serving as a Conservative MP from 1987 to 2010, and later as a Brexit Party MEP and Reform UK spokeswoman. She also gained fame outside politics through appearances on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.
Police Investigation Continues
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated: “Our priority remains identifying those responsible and ensuring that all available evidence is thoroughly examined. Detectives continue to carry out numerous enquiries as part of the ongoing investigation and we remain committed to establishing the full circumstances surrounding the incident.” He added that the investigation is “moving at a significant pace” and urged the public to submit any information via the Major Incident Public Portal or anonymously to Crimestoppers.
Police have previously stated that the death is not being treated as terrorism and there is no indication it was a politically-motivated crime.
Political Reactions
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called the murder a “terrible reflection on modern Britain” and expressed concern for the safety of those in public life. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer urged unity across political divides, having spoken to his likely successor Andy Burnham, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, and Mr. Farage. Mrs. Badenoch said she “really struggled to find the words” and described the attack as “nasty, horrific.”
Widdecombe's Legacy
Miss Widdecombe held several ministerial positions under Sir John Major and later became a television personality. She appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 with Anton du Beke, reaching the semi-finals. She served as an MEP for South West England from 2019 to 2020 and remained active in media, appearing on TalkTV the day before her death. She was also scheduled to appear on Channel 5's Matt Allwright show on Wednesday but did not join the Zoom call; the production team later alerted her agent after calls went unanswered.
