The funeral of former Member of Parliament Ann Widdecombe was held at Buckfast Abbey in Devon, a place she considered her sanctuary. Police officers and sniffer dogs were present on the abbey grounds ahead of the private requiem mass, which lasted approximately 90 minutes.
During the service, the Rt Rev David Charlesworth, Abbot of Buckfast, delivered a homily. He spoke of praying for the repose of her soul and giving thanks for her fortitude, noting that the Abbey Church was Ann Widdecombe's "safe haven." A statement from the Abbey Church described her as someone who would be "missed and fondly remembered," adding that "many in our worshipping community knew her as a kind and warm character."
The abbey's statement also highlighted Widdecombe's profound faith, which she expressed publicly through her political career. "Ann was unafraid to express her unwavering convictions, formed through her Roman Catholic faith. She had a sharp intellect and was a dedicated public servant," the statement read.
Tributes were also shared during the service by the Rev Roger Widdecombe, her nephew, and Sir Christian Sweeting, a close friend. The order of service included these personal reflections on her life.
Ann Widdecombe, who represented the constituency of Maidstone and later Cheriton and Penwith, was a prominent figure in British politics. She was known for her staunch conservative views and her articulate defense of her beliefs, often drawing on her Roman Catholic faith. She served as a junior minister in the Department of Health and later as the Shadow Home Secretary.
A public memorial service for Ann Widdecombe is scheduled to take place later this year.