Former MP Ann Widdecombe's family plans funeral at Buckfast Abbey

Ann Widdecombe, former cabinet minister and Reform UK spokesperson, was found dead at her Haytor, Devon home on 9 July, police saying she likely died the previous day. Prosecutors allege she was attacked with a hammer, her wallet taken and she was tipped from her chair. A 28‑year‑old man from Rotherham, Joshua Kerry, has been charged with her murder and a trial is scheduled for June 2027.

Widdecombe's family announced that a private funeral service will be held in the coming weeks at Buckfast Abbey, the Benedictine monastery she attended regularly. The abbey said it is working closely with the family and asked for privacy, adding that a more public memorial will follow later in the year. The Abbey’s Fr Abbot and monastic community said they are keeping Widdecombe and her family in prayer.

The case has drawn national attention due to Widdecombe’s prominence in politics and the violent nature of the alleged crime.