Nearly two weeks after her passing, prosecutors have confirmed the cause of death for former Tory MP Ann Widdecombe, who died earlier this month at age 78.
According to statements presented at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, the politician died after being struck on the head 21 times with a hammer at her Devon home on 8 July.
Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has been remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey this afternoon after appearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court charged with the murder of the former Strictly Come Dancing contestant.
Devon and Cornwall police subsequently said they believed the 78-year-old was attacked the day before at 12.30 pm.
On Monday, Frank Ferguson, the chief crown prosecutor of the CPS special crime and counter-terrorism division, said: “We have decided to prosecute Joshua Kerry for murder following a police investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe in Haytor, Dartmoor.
“Police inquiries into the defendant’s motives are ongoing, including a potential political or terrorist connection.
© Alamy Stock Photo“Our prosecutors have worked closely with the police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court, and we will continue working with them as their investigation progresses.
“We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial.
“It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
News of Ann’s death
Anne’s death was announced by her management, who said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG.
“We send our deepest condolences to Ann’s family and friends. We ask that the family’s wish not to be contacted at this sad time is respected.”
© Yui Mok – PA Images“Her life and career were driven by her strong Christian values and commitment to public service,” it read.
“She loved the cut and thrust of political debate and, 16 years after leaving Parliament, was still actively campaigning for Reform UK and offering forthright views on the hot topics of the day across numerous radio and television programmes.
“Ann was a valued patron of many causes, particularly her animal charities.
“As Ann once said on The Graham Norton Show, ‘we get one go this side of eternity, one go. Life is not a dress rehearsal, you take opportunities that you like and you go for it, that’s my philosophy’.”
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