Former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe was struck on the head 21 times with a hammer in what prosecutors described as a sustained and violent attack, a court has heard. During proceedings, the prosecution alleged the assault resulted in her death and outlined the severity of the injuries as evidence was presented before the jury. A 26-year-old man has been charged in connection with the case and has appeared in court, where he denied the allegations against him.

Jurors were told the attack was carried out using a hammer, with prosecutors arguing the number of blows demonstrated the ferocity of the assault. The trial continues, with further evidence and witness testimony expected to be heard in the coming days. As with all criminal proceedings, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.