British police are continuing their investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative member of Parliament and prominent television personality, who was found dead at her home on the edge of Dartmoor National Park on Thursday. The 78-year-old was discovered with serious injuries at her residence in Haytor Vale, prompting a murder inquiry by Devon and Cornwall Police. While a 26-year-old man was initially arrested on suspicion of murder, authorities confirmed on Saturday that he has been released and is no longer part of the investigation.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated that the inquiry is in its early stages but is moving at a significant pace. Police have emphasized that there is currently no information to suggest the death was politically motivated, nor is it being treated as an act of terror. Forensic teams remain at the scene, and officers are conducting house-to-house inquiries as they work to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Widdecombe served as a Member of Parliament from 1987 to 2010, holding various roles including prisons minister. Following her parliamentary career, she gained widespread public recognition through appearances on reality television programs such as Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother. In recent years, she remained active in public life as a spokesperson for the Reform UK party.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his condolences, describing Widdecombe as a distinguished politician with a long record of service. As the investigation proceeds, authorities have appealed for anyone with information to come forward to assist detectives in identifying those responsible for her death.