Ann Widdecombe’s death was announced on Friday and now police have issued a significant update.
On Friday morning, Good Morning Britain hosts Kate Garraway and Ranvir Singh interrupted the broadcast after Ann’s spokesperson confirmed she had died at the age of 78.
Later on Friday, detectives from Devon & Cornwall Police confirmed they are investigating the death of Ann after she was found dead at her home in Dartmoor.
According to The Sun, Ann was reportedly found covered in blood at her home in Devon after sustaining a serious head wound.
In the latest update, as reported by the BBC, 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
In a statement earlier on Friday, Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said: “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.”
Good Morning Britain interrupted to announce Ann Widdecombe’s death
It comes after Good Morning Britain broke into its scheduled programme to tell viewers that the former Conservative minister had died. A statement was issued by her agent on behalf of her family.
Speaking live 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 best-known figures in British politics, serving as the Conservative MP for Maidstone from 1987 until 2010.
During John Major’s government, she held ministerial positions including Employment Minister before later becoming Prisons Minister. She also went on to serve as Shadow Home Secretary under William Hague.
Famous for her outspoken views, Ann became one of the Conservative Party’s most prominent social conservatives. She campaigned on abortion and opposed the ordination of women priests.
Tributes pour in after Ann Widdecombe’s death
Following her departure from Parliament, Ann carved out a successful television career, appearing on Strictly Come Dancing, Celebrity Big Brother and a host of political debate programmes.
She later left the Conservative Party and joined Reform UK, becoming one of the party’s most recognisable figures.
Tributes have already begun pouring in from across the political spectrum following the announcement of Ann Widdecombe’s death. Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice paid an emotional tribute to his former colleague during an appearance on GB News.
He described Ann as a “remarkable person” and a “great lady”, praising 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.”
Read more: Bonnie Tyler’s poignant comments about her future in TV appearance months before her death
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX.
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