Counter Terrorism Policing South East are leading the ongoing investigation

A 28-year-old man, Joshua Kerry, has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe, the Crown Prosecution Service has said.

The former Conservative minister-turned-Reform UK spokeswoman was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor at about 11.40am on July 8 after sustaining serious injuries.

Kerry, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court tomorrow morning.

He was first arrested on suspicion of murder on July 11, two days after the 78-year-old was found dead at her home in Devon.

On July 13, Kerry was additionally arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.

Frank Ferguson, Chief Crown Prosecutor of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, said: "We have decided to prosecute Joshua Kerry for murder following a police investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe in Haytor, Dartmoor.

"Police enquiries into the defendant's motives are ongoing, including a potential political or terrorist connection.

“Our prosecutors have worked closely with the police to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court, and we will continue working with them as their investigation progresses."

He added: "We remind all concerned that proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial. It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information which could in anyway prejudice these proceedings."

In a statement read outside New Scotland Yard today, head of UK counter-terrorism policing Laurence Taylor said: “Earlier today, detectives from counter-terrorism policing were informed that following a submission of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service, charges have now been authorised.

“We have charged Joshua Kerry, a 28-year-old British national of Byrley Road, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, with her murder.

“He is still in custody and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court tomorrow morning for his first hearing. It remains the case that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident."

Assistant Commissioner Taylor added: "I want to make it very clear that our investigation into this individual, determining his motivations and any wider activity he may have been involved in is continuing.

"Given Ann Widdecombe’s profile and the targeted nature of the attack, determining the motivation, including any possible political motivation, remains an active avenue of investigation for our detectives, and as with all murder investigations, understanding the why is a key part of our inquiries.”

Assistant Commissioner Taylor went on to say: "Over the last week, our teams have gathered a huge amount of information, leading to over 800 lines of inquiry. Each of those needs assessing carefully and thoroughly, and I ask that we are given the time to do that.

“Should Counter Terrorism Policing identify any further offences, we will liaise with the Crown Prosecution Service and submit evidence where appropriate."

The Assistant Commissioner continued: “I know many have been understandably concerned about their own safety after this horrendous attack, particularly after hearing about the nature of the attack she endured in her own home.

“We’re working closely with the Speaker of the House and the relevant authorities to ensure elected officials are aware of what we have in place to protect them."

Ms Widdecombe was first elected as a Conservative MP in Kent in 1987, before going on to become an MEP for the Brexit Party and then a spokeswoman for Reform UK.

She was also beloved outside politics after starring in Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.

Tributes were paid to her by figures across the political spectrum after her death.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood called her "one of those rare politicians who was bigger than politics".

Richard Tice, the Deputy Leader of Reform UK, told GB News she was an "incredible orator" and "incredibly fearless", having known Ms Widdecombe since her involvement in the Brexit Party.

"We will miss her terribly, we will miss her sage advice", Mr Tice said, adding she was willing to "travel the length and breadth of the country" for the party.

Dame Andrea Jenkyns, the Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire, described Ms Widdecombe as a "true political titan who served her country as an MP, Minister, and MEP with unwavering devotion to her principles".

"She was a giant of public life, completely unapologetic in her views, and a one-of-a-kind character who left an indelible mark on Westminster and beyond. She will be greatly missed."

A respected author, Ms Widdecombe also wrote a weekly column for GB News.

The prominent Eurosceptic served in several Cabinet positions in Conservative governments throughout her time in Parliament as the MP for Maidstone, later Maidstone and The Weald.