A public memorial service for Ann Widdecombe, the former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman, will be held later this year, her family announced. Widdecombe, 78, was found dead in her Dartmoor home earlier this month with serious head injuries.
Her family expressed gratitude for the public's condolences but stated that the initial private service, scheduled for the coming weeks, will be limited to close friends and family. Invitations for this private ceremony have already been distributed. Details for the public memorial will be released at a later date.
Tributes to Widdecombe have come from across the political spectrum and from entertainment figures. Anton Du Beke, who partnered with her on "Strictly Come Dancing" in 2010, described himself as devastated and recalled her as a fun, upbeat, and supportive friend. Kemi Badenoch, a leader within the Conservative Party, for which Widdecombe served as shadow home secretary, said the party was “reeling.” Badenoch remembered Widdecombe as a “very fun and feisty woman who spoke her mind.” Former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer referred to her as a “distinguished politician.”
Nigel Farage, speaking in a social media video, called Widdecombe an “extraordinary woman” who dedicated her life to public service and to advocating for her beliefs. He noted her strong socially conservative views and her devout Christian faith, acknowledging that these views may not be popular in contemporary Britain but were held firmly by Widdecombe.