Counter Terrorism Policing South East is leading an investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe. 

Specialist counter terrorism officers have been working alongside colleagues in Devon and Cornwall Police since a murder investigation was launched.

Officers were called to Miss Widdecombe’s home at Haytor, Devon, by the ambulance service at around 11.40am on Thursday 9 July. 

Sadly, 78-year-old Miss Widdecombe was located deceased within the property.

A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday 11 July.

New information and evidence came to light during a dynamic and complex investigation and, as a result, Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) is now leading the investigation.

CTPSE is continuing to work closely with colleagues from the Devon and Cornwall Police Major Crime Investigation Team and across the Counter Terrorism Policing network in an effort to establish the full circumstances of the incident.

We continue to appeal for anyone who may have any information that could help our investigation to get in touch.

We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the vicinity of Haytor Vale, Haytor, or anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage which could assist our investigation.