Widdecombe Attacked 24 Hours Before Body Found

Devon and Cornwall Police revealed that Ann Widdecombe was likely attacked on Wednesday afternoon, but her body was not found until Thursday.

The former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson had been due to appear on a television programme, with her final text messages showing she was in good spirits shortly before the attack.

A man arrested on suspicion of murder has been released without charge, and police are now hunting a white male suspect.

Reform MPs have been given 24-hour protection amid fears of a copycat attack, while tributes pour in from across the political spectrum.