A 26-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of former Conservative MP and television personality Ann Widdecombe. Devon and Cornwall Police said officers were called to her home in Haytor Vale, near Dartmoor, where the 78-year-old was found with serious injuries. The suspect was arrested in Newton Abbot and remains in police custody while detectives continue their inquiries. Police have stated that the investigation is in its early stages and that there is currently no indication the incident was terrorism-related or politically motivated.

Tributes have been paid to Widdecombe from across the political spectrum, recognising her long career in public life. She served as a Conservative MP from 1987 to 2010, later became a Member of the European Parliament for the Brexit Party, and most recently acted as a spokesperson for Reform UK. Known for her outspoken views and appearances on television programmes including Strictly Come Dancing, Widdecombe remained a prominent public figure after leaving Westminster. Police have appealed for anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward as forensic examinations and other inquiries continue.