Ann Widdecombe, outspoken former MP and TV star, dies aged 78

Ann Widdecombe, the former Conservative MP and later Reform UK member who also became a familiar television personality, has died at the age of 78. Her death was announced on Friday, with a statement from her management confirming the news, as reported by The Guardian.

The GuardianAnn Widdecombe, former Tory MP and Reform UK member, dies aged 78

"It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG."

Widdecombe served for decades as a Conservative MP and was known for her strong positions on social issues. The Irish Independent and ireland-live.ie both noted that throughout her political career she was "a prominent Eurosceptic and known for her socially conservative views." She later stood as a candidate for the Brexit Party and Reform UK, reflecting her long-held opposition to European integration.

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ireland-live.ieAnn Widdecombe, former Tory MP and Reform UK member, dies aged 78Irish IndependentAnn Widdecombe, former Tory MP and Reform UK member, dies aged 78

Beyond politics, Widdecombe became a household name through television appearances, including as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing. Metro described her as a "politician-turned-TV personality." She also appeared regularly as a panelist on shows such as Have I Got News for You and was a fixture of British public life for decades.

MetroAnn Widdecombe, the former MP and MEP, dies aged 78

The Bolton News recalled that Widdecombe had "a long career as a Conservative MP," first entering Parliament in 1987 and serving as a junior minister under John Major. She was known for her plain-spoken style and her vocal opposition to abortion and euthanasia, positions that set her apart from many in her party.

Widdecombe later moved to the European Parliament, serving as an MEP from 2019 to 2020. Her family and representatives have asked for privacy as they grieve, and tributes from former colleagues are expected to follow in the coming days.