Family and Colleagues Attend Requiem Mass for Ann Widdecombe

Approximately 100 family members, friends, and colleagues gathered on August 12 for a private requiem mass for Ann Widdecombe at Buckfast Abbey in Devon. The service followed the July 8 murder of the former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson, who was attacked with a hammer at her home in Haytor.

The service featured a homily by the Abbot of Buckfast and tributes from her nephew, Rev Roger Widdecombe, and friend Christian Sweeting. Attendees included shadow chancellor Mel Stride, former justice minister Crispin Blunt, and broadcaster Iain Dale. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage did not attend the private service to avoid becoming a distraction, though he is expected to attend a public memorial later this year.

Legal proceedings regarding the death are ongoing. Joshua Kerry, 28, was charged with the murder of Widdecombe on July 20.