Man Charged With Murder of Ann Widdecombe in Devon Home

A 28-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe at her home in Devon. Prosecutors told Westminster Magistrates’ Court that the attack took place on July 8 while Widdecombe was eating lunch. The court heard that the suspect entered through the front door, struck her on the head 21 times with a hammer, tipped her from her chair, removed a wallet from her handbag, and left the property within approximately two minutes.

The defendant appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on July 21. He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, and address during the brief hearing. Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring remanded him in custody and ordered that the case be sent to crown court.

The next appearance is scheduled for the Old Bailey on July 22. A provisional cause of death was recorded as blunt force injury to the head.

Widdecombe was found the following day by her gardener, who had been asked to check on her after she missed a scheduled media interview. She was discovered face down on the kitchen floor. Police arrested the suspect on July 11. He is listed as living in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, and was wearing a grey tracksuit when he appeared in court.

Further hearings are set for October 9 and November 20, with a provisional trial date of June 8, 2027.