Man, 28, arrested on suspicion of murder of Ann Widdecombe

Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed that a 28-year-old man was arrested at an address in the South Yorkshire area this evening (July 11).

The suspect, who is a white British national, is now in custody.

Man, 28, arrested on suspicion of murder of Ann Widdecombe

A full statement from Devon and Cornwall Police reads: We can confirm that a 28-year-old man was arrested at an address in the South Yorkshire area this evening (July 11) on suspicion of the murder of Ann Widdecombe.

“The suspect, who is a white British national, is now in police custody.

“Miss Widdecombe’s family have been informed of this development.

“We were supported by Counter Terrorism Policing North East and South Yorkshire Police who carried out the arrest on behalf of Devon & Cornwall Police. At this time, there is still no information to suggest that this is a terrorism related incident and as a force we retain primacy of the investigation.

“This is a live and active investigation, and no further information will be issued tonight. We will look to provide further updates tomorrow (July 12).”

The 78-year-old former MP was found dead at her home on Haytor, Dartmoor, on Thursday (July 9).

Police believe she was attacked in her home at around 12.30pm the previous day.

The latest arrest follows a 26-year-old white British man arrested at an address in Newton Abbot on suspicion of murder on Friday (July 10), but was released from custody this morning (July 11).

Ms Widdecombe began her career as a Conservative MP in Kent in 1987.

She later served as an MEP for the Brexit Party and was a spokeswoman for Reform UK.

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Outside of politics, she appeared on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.

Her family has requested privacy as they grieve.

Information can also be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers, and a major incident public portal has also been set up.