Inquest into Ann Widdecombe's death to open

A 28-year-old white British man who was arrested in South Yorkshire on suspicion of the former MP's murder is still being questioned by police

Tributes left near Ann Widdecombe's home on Dartmoor in Devon
Author: Lizzie CouttsPublished 20th Jul 2026

An inquest into the death of former MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe is expected to open tomorrow (21 July).

The 78-year-old was found dead at her Haytor home on Dartmoor, Devon, on July 9th after suffering "serious injuries."

Counter-terrorism police believe she was the victim of a "targeted attack" the day before she was found.

A 28-year-old white British man who was arrested in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on July 11 on suspicion of Miss Widdecombe's murder remains in police custody.

A hearing is scheduled at County Hall in Exeter at 10am on Tuesday (21 July) to open an inquest into her death.

Two days after the murder arrest, the man was further arrested by counter-terrorism police on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.

Under terrorism laws, suspects can initially be held for up to seven days, with investigators permitted to apply for time extensions up to 14 days in total.

It's understood the initial period is set to expire on Monday evening (20 July).

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