Anton du Beke 'devastated' over Ann Widdecombe death as politicians share shock at murder probe
Former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe has been found dead in her home, with police launching a murder investigation. A 26-year-old man has been arrested, and officials have stated there is currently no evidence of political motivation.
Why it matters
The death of a prominent political figure has prompted shock and calls for unity from across the UK political spectrum.
Image source, REUTERS/Simon Dawson/File Photo By Tom Bennett Published 41 minutes ago Political leaders and a TV star have expressed their sadness and shock at the death of Ann Widdecombe as police investigate the case as murder.
Anton Du Beke, who was her partner on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, said he was devastated by her death, which he called the "saddest of news".
"I had the most brilliant time with Ann on Strictly Come Dancing, she became a real friend, she was fun, she was upbeat, she was positive, she was supportive, she was game, wanted to enter into the spirit of the whole thing," he said in a video on X posted shortly before the murder probe was announced.
Widdecombe, 78, was found in her Devon home on Thursday morning with serious injuries, police say.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in