Ann Widdecombe funeral details as church issues statement

Funeral details for former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe are still being finalised, as Buckfast Abbey confirmed it is working closely with her family on arrangements

Funeral arrangements for former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe are still being finalised following her passing in July. Her death has become a matter of national significance, given her prominent political legacy and the harrowing circumstances surrounding it.

Westminster Magistrates’ Court was told last week that Widdecombe died after being struck 21 times on the head with a hammer. A provisional cause of death was recorded as a “blunt force injury to the head”, the court was informed.

Joshua Kerry, from Rotherham, was detained on suspicion of murder on July 11. He was subsequently re-arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism, though no charge relating to this offence has been brought against him.

A provisional trial date has been set for June 8, 2027, reports Chronicle Live.

Widdecombe’s family has pressed ahead with funeral preparations, working closely with Buckfast Abbey, where she was a devoted regular worshipper. Fr Abbot and the Monastic Community of Buckfast have issued a statement confirming they “continue to hold Ann Widdecombe, her family and loved ones in our prayers during this difficult time”

Following her death, Buckfast Abbey, nestled on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, released a statement in which Fr Abbot and the Monastic Community expressed they were “deeply saddened to hear of the death of Ann Widdecombe in such tragic and disturbing circumstances”. Ann was a regular fixture at the Abbey Church, faithfully attending Sunday Solemn Mass alongside Holy Week and Easter celebrations.

The statement went on: “Many in our worshipping community knew her as a kind and warm character. She will be missed and fondly remembered.

“Ann was a woman of profound faith, a faith which found expression in the public forum of politics. Ann was unafraid to express her unwavering convictions, formed through her Roman Catholic faith.

“She had a sharp intellect and was a dedicated public servant. Fr Abbot and the Monastic Community extend their heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.”

In a communiqué released on Sunday, 26th July, Fr Abbot confirmed the church was liaising “closely with the family regarding funeral arrangements” and would share further details “in due course, when appropriate”.

Fr Abbot and the Monastic Community expressed that they were “grateful for the many messages of sympathy and support that have been received.”

Buckfast Abbey houses a community of Roman Catholic Benedictine monks who follow the ancient Rule of St Benedict. The location holds considerable historical significance, with the original abbey established in 1018 AD by King Cnut.

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