Man arrested on suspicion of murder of former MP and minister Ann Widdecombe

A 26-year-old white British man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering former MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe.

The ex-Tory prisons minister was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday after sustaining serious injuries.

Miss Widdecombe, who was 78, later became a Brexit Party MEP and subsequently a Reform UK spokeswoman.

She also found fame outside politics after starring in Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.

Devon and Cornwall Police Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said the 26-year-old suspect was arrested at an address in Newton Abbot on Friday.

He said the case was “not being treated as terrorism” and there was “no information” at this time to suggest it was a “politically motivated crime”.

Published: 10/07/2026 by Radio NewsHub