Ann Widdecombe Remembrance memorial
We are saddened to learn of the passing of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Maidstone since 2007. For more than two decades, Ann was a passionate advocate for Maidstone and its communities. Her commitment to public service, fierce dedication to her constituents and unmistakable presence in public life left a lasting mark on our borough. Council Leader Cllr Stuart Jeffery said: “Ann was a formidable parliamentarian, a dedicated constituency MP and a strong champion for Maidstone. The affection she held for the borough was clear throughout her years of service.
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share their thoughts and pay tribute to Ann. We know this is a deeply upsetting case that has had a profound impact on our community, and our thoughts remain with Ann’s family, friends and all those affected.
As criminal proceedings are now live and an individual has been charged in connection with Ann’s murder, we have taken the decision to close the book of condolence. This is to help protect the integrity of the legal process and ensure a fair trial can take place. Thank you for your understanding and for continuing to show respect and compassion during this difficult time.
Rest in peace Lioness who fought for the patriots of our country and those less deserving We will never forget you and your wise words In gods hands rest now Bless you
Remembered by: Carol Sampson
Rest in peace Anne.
Remembered by: Elizabeth Fleming
You were a remarkable lady.My mother wrote to you back in the 80s,the local bus company were removing a service which was very important to her and family ,within 4 weeks this bus service was started again and to this day is still running. Thankyou Ann for everything you truly believed in.RiP
Remembered by: Debbie Stevens
Thank you Ann.RIP
Remembered by: Matt
Mrs Widecombe, I cannot believe that you have been so cruelly taken from this world when you have given so so much to the communities in it. You are an inspirational woman with many words of wisdom that can be repeated and heard over and over and still it makes the most perfect sense. I am sorry you had to suffer in the end at the hands of someone so cruel but even though you are now gone people will say your name and remember your word of wisdom. The compassion you had for your community and how you had everyone’s best interests at heart and wasn’t scared to offend others who disagreed is something we are proud of you for. A feisty woman not afraid to upset the boat and tiptoe around the elephants in the room! A true leader and utterly fabulous lady!! May you rest in peace Ann I’m sure reform will continue to share your words and carry out all the values and views you held so close to your heart and in the interest of us all.R.I.P Mrs Widecombe
Remembered by: Mrs orchard
A lady with great spirit and determination. Remember her opening Tolherst Court office in 2005 - she had her conservative constituent nearby in Albion Place, Maidstone for many years.
Remembered by: Sarah Elvy, Turkey Mill Business Park
Ann you dedicated your life to politics in the hope of helping your constituents you were not afraid you were an amazing lady who will be sadly missed across the political spectrum RIP Ann never to be forgotten
Remembered by: Rosheen Hingston
I knew Anne years ago when I lived in Maidstone,I got in touch with you when I had my little girl and you helped me ,immensly to have what I needed .I will never forget you ,remarkable , very kind ,.Rest In Peace Anne ❤️❤️
Remembered by: Linda
Rest in Peace Ann Widdlecombe. You’ll be sorely missed and you will always be remembered for your time on Strictly Come Dancing as well as serving as MP for Maidstone.Thank you for all the memories and we will miss you.
Remembered by: Spencer Williams
A marvelous lady, great intellect, honest and moral.
Remembered by: Ray Hollier
Now resting in the arms of God the world is a sadder place without you You were a lady who stuck by her beliefs & carried out your duties very well
Remembered by: Katharine Wickenden
My son was doing a school project years ago . He wrote to Anne she replied back explaining that she was the Maidstone MP not Aylesford but she took the time he never forgot and it was 30 plus years ago RIP to a lovely lady .
Remembered by: Sharon Ralph
Met Ann once in Maidstone when I was attending a cat show, We spoke for a while and she took time for a personal photo. RIP lovely lady
Remembered by: Susie
I remember her kindness during the few services she attended when I sang at All Saints Church Maidstone. The couple of times I met her she was very kind (I was a child back then). Of course I disagree with her views but that doesn't mean she wasn't kind in person.
Remembered by: Onyx Rist
REST IN PEACE ANN
Remembered by: Nicola
A strong lady who stood by her convictions.Will be sadly missed
Remembered by: Madeline
I met you once Ann and you were a joy to speak to.RIP.
Remembered by: Jon Hayes
I never knew or met you but admired you from afar. A lovely person, character and passionate about a cause. A great loss in many ways. X
Remembered by: Helen Lycett
I had the privilege to meet her on a couple of occasions and found her very warm and lovely lady.
Remembered by: Barbara Muir
me and my mum meant Ann once in the chequers centre and i will sat down with her and had a cuppa. She was one of the most kindly people i had ever met. RIP Ann
Remembered by: matthew hills
Rest in peace Ann & you will be remembered for all you did. And all the fun you had. 💐💐
Remembered by: Jennie Connell
As another person has said, Rest in Paradise Ann a very special lady. Thoughts and condolences to your family and friends.
Remembered by: Diane
Met Ann twice .. once when she was campaigning at my front door .I was studying for my nursing degree and was doing an assignment on Women Carers .. we had a good half hr chat .Lovely lady x RIP Ann 💕
Remembered by: Amey Hewett
So sorry to hear that we lost you Ann. Rest in eternal peace. You will never be forgotten. It was an honour to have met you and interpret for you. Always in our hearts and prayers xx
Remembered by: Sonsel Bafli RPSI
So sad, You may not have agreed with all her views but, she was an excellent MP for Maidstone.
Remembered by: Norman Kendall
I met Ann whilst she came to our Primary school, lovely lady, I was very saddened to see what happened to her. Rest in Peace Ann x
Remembered by: Mrs Lisa Cleggett.
Such a very sad loss. God love her in heaven as you did on earth. RIP Ann
Remembered by: Hilary
What a truly remarkable lady. A fierce no nonsense MP with a heart gold. I loved watching you on strictly and big brother,we got to see the other side of you. You will be sadly missed by so many. My heart goes out to your family and friends. RIP Ann
Remembered by: Reynolds Donna
Such a force to be reckoned with and had the courage of her convictions to say what she believed in regardless of intimidation. Strong but had a soft heart ❤️ Never ever forget her brave personality.
Remembered by: Jan Millen
Rip Ann you spoke up for my mum cant thankyou enough
Remembered by: Lorraine Inglis
I met her once while repairing her printer machine, she offered me a cup of tea and we sat and chatted for a long time. A very kind, sweet lady, God Bless You.x
Remembered by: Wayne scoble
Rest in peace Ann, you will be sadly missed. Thinking of your family at this very sad time. God bless.
Remembered by: Kimberley
Rest In Peace Ann. Such a lovely lady. Keep on dancing
Remembered by: Joan
We've lost a great personality, speaker and staunch supporter of our country. Loved working with her back in her early Conservative days on local Maidstone wards and met her in Bovey Tracey only last year. She will be missed.
Remembered by: Lorraine
Thank you for your service Ann
Remembered by: Anthony and Kim G
A wonderful MP. An excellent example to us all
Remembered by: Roger and Helena Tunnell
RIP Ann, a trail blazer for all the ladies who followed. Made an amazing difference to many people's lives.
Remembered by: Lorraine Dunn
Dearest Ann. The world won't be the same without you in it. You were a brilliant force of nature and a true patriot. Your kindness and encouragement to my son when he campaigned with you meant so much to us as a family. May you rest in the eternal peace you so richly deserve x
Remembered by: Joanne
rip ann i met her and gave me advice with a problem i had after talking to her i became a tory member she was a kind lady. God bless her rest in peace
Remembered by: mrs marion hopkins
They broke the mould when they made this lady. Passionate and compassionate in equal measure and simply the best MP this town has ever had. RIP Ann you will be sorely missed.
Remembered by: Lindsay Kahl
A politician with long-held values and the strength to uphold them. The nation has lost a very admirable woman.
Remembered by: Kevan Hidges
RIP Ann you were a legend rest easy now
Remembered by: Mandie rowe
We may not have shared the same political views but when I wrote asking for help with local matters, Ann Widdecombe was always quick to respond to my queries. RIP Ann Widdecombe
Remembered by: Bernice Brewster
R I P from one ex Maidstone resident to another may you rest in eternal peace
Remembered by: anna gibson
She was a great lady. Was very helpful for when i first got married and we lived with my parents she helped us to get our first home in Maidstone. She will be sadly missed by all, and helped were and when ever she could .Rest in peace Ann❤️
Remembered by: Kim Gerring
Ann you were a beautiful Lady and a brilliant politician. You spoke your mind with no air and graces. I will never forget you and will remember you always.💔🙏💔
Remembered by: Pauline Davis
Dear Ann, how we will miss you. I respected you in all your Service to this Country. You didn’t deserve what happened. I hope your faith saw you through your final hours. RIP with your loved ones forever. With much love.
Remembered by: Elizabeth Yates
They broke the mould when they made this lady. Passionate and compassionate in equal measure and simply the best MP Maidstone has ever had. RIP Ann - you will be sorely missed.
Remembered by: Lindsay Kahl
May you rest in eternal peace
Remembered by: Andrea Adams
This lovely lady helped me and my family move from a flat to a house , I will be forever grateful , thank you for caring . RIP
Remembered by: Sally
Ann was honest and courageous. She carried out many kinds deeds. The world just grew a little dimmer with her loss. RIP never forgotten.
Remembered by: Mike Wootton
A lady who said how it was full admiration for her direct approach. Rest easy Ann, may the angels wrap their wings around you. God Bless
Remembered by: Linda Knight
Ann was such a great friendly lady i met her a few times i can't believe Ann has gone Ann one of the best spoke her mind and she was great MP in Maidstone R.I.P Ann my thoughts are with her family god bless you
Remembered by: Mark Wells
Ann said it how it was, plain and clear. Old school but the right on the button. Rest in peace Ann.
Remembered by: Sue Ryan
Rest in peace. I always enjoyed watching you whether it was about politics or on Strictly. You will be greatly missed.
Remembered by: Yvonne Turne
I may not have agreed with your politics, but I respected the fact that you spoke your truth, spoke with integrity, and always answered the question you were being asked. There are not many left like you, Ann, if any, and politics is all the poorer for that. Thank you for your service. May you Rest in Peace.
Remembered by: Michelle Sandys
A good person, a great MP, a good Christian. I pray for her soul.
Remembered by: Cheryl Wermuth
This lady helped me get my home after years of being in a temporary flat she was one in a Million thank you for all you have done for our community
Remembered by: Charlotte walker
You will be greatly missed, such a lovely woman. Not many like you. R.I.P
Remembered by: Leonie and Daw
I had the privilege to meet her many years ago. she was a joy. I extend my sincere condolences to her family and friends.
Remembered by: Ann Geering
Rest in peace ann widdecombe
Remembered by: Violet
I was so saddened and shocked to hear of Ann's untimely death. She worked hard and she gave her life supporting those that needed her. Rest in peace and thank you Ann. Keep dancing x
Remembered by: Sue G
I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting you personally Ann, but I thought you was a legend who spoke the truth & if that offended someone then so be it. You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Anne 🌹
Remembered by: Karen
R.I.P Beautifful lady x
Remembered by: Eva
RIP Ann
Remembered by: Carolyn Sutton
Ann was a great MP for Maidstone & we liked her straight attitude. Rest in peace Ann .
Remembered by: Julie & Peter
A very interesting lady who i had the opportunity to meet some years ago while working at Maidstone Hospital she spent Christmas morning talking to patients and staff. A remarkable lady Sending my sincerest condolences to her family
Remembered by: Lindsay Dunn
Rest in paradise Ann my heart is with your family at this heartbreaking time
Remembered by: Sherrile
Ann Widdecombe. Just cannot find the right words. I didn’t know you but saw you at a charity event for the Cats Protection. Admired your gust and gumption and really was convinced you’d be our Prime Minister one day - and what a great one you would’ve been! Sending deepest condolences to family, friends and colleagues who, no doubt, are shocked at your untimely passing. May you rest in peace. x
Remembered by: Denize Halfpenny
I have very fond memories of Ann Widdecombe on her election campaign in Maidstone which will never be forgotten. May she rest in peace
Remembered by: Elizabeth Bailey
This is very sad, shocking even. I disagreed with Ann over so many things, but liked, respected and admired her anyway. She did much good; for example she was Patron of Buttercups Goat Sanctuary, of which I used to be a Trustee, and she always took a lively interest in the sanctuary, even after she had retired and moved to Devon. I shall miss her. RIP Ann.
Remembered by: Jerry Whitmarsh
You was a fiesty lady. Deeply sorry and sad at your loss. You will be massively missed xxx
Remembered by: JANET
You will be sadly missed. My Family and I met you in 1988 after the great storm had caused damage to our grade 2 listed house. You listened and was very supportive. You’ve provided us with memories and laughs and will be remembered by me as a caring person. Sending love and support to your family. R.I.P Ann.
Remembered by: Nick Skinner
I had the pleasure of working alongside you for my work experience, over 20 years ago. An experience that has stayed with me always and one I am incredibly proud of. As a politician, you were present. Very active within your local community and made much, positive change, for many many people. Thank you for your service.
Remembered by: Yvonne M
I had the pleasure of meeting Ann in the 80s she was a lovely lady. I was very sorry to hear of her untimely death, condolences go to her family and friends at this sad time R.I.P Ann
Remembered by: Chrissie Harris
A truly remarkable lady, a visionary for society and will never be replaced.As a schoolgirl in the late 1980's I had the privilege to meet her and show her around Senacre School which I attended in her Maidstone constituency.
Remembered by: Karen.
Dear Ann, rest in peace. I loved your freedom of speech I’ve learned from you. May god hold you in his arms after your untimely death. xx
Remembered by: Amanda G
Many condolences to Ann's family and friends.Ann was a decent,honest forthright person.RIP.
Remembered by: David and Patsy Wastell
Ann Widdecombe came to our house many years ago to help and support us through anti-social behaviour by others to us when we lived in Tovil. She drove herself to our house and came in for Tea and biscuits. . I am utterly devastated that this lovely lady met her end in suchh a terrible way. Ann, may you rest in ever lasting glory and eternal peace. I hope you get justice for what has been done to you. Thankyou for what you did for us. God bless R.I.P.
Remembered by: Alison Hornsby
Ann was a dear friend and mentor to me in my political and public affairs campaigning journey. She should have been the second female prime minister. We spoke at many hustings and other event platforms. My heart aches for her passing away in such an abhorrent way. I will miss her sage like advice. She was a principled and honest political titan. Rest in peace gorgeous lady. Love Howard xxx
Remembered by: Howard Cox
Ann left the Church of England because she could not accept women in the priesthood. I was one of the first women so ordained in Canterbury Diocese and when l spoke to her after she had given an address at a United Service at Canterbury Cathedral she was very warm and pleasant and said that it had been the right decision for her for many reasons - no hard feelings. I did not agree with her on many matters but l liked and admired her.
Remembered by: Canon Noelle Hall
May not have agreed with her all the time but she had principles and stuck to them which I admired.. nobody deserves to have this happen to them RIP Ann
Remembered by: Fi radford
Very saddened by news of the passing of Ann Widdecombe in such a cruel way. Our best wishes and thoughts to all her family and friends at this awful time.
Remembered by: John Matthews
It is heartbreaking. Ann was such a strong advocate for many causes. Among them the rights of animals and helped to end fox hunting in England. There will never be anyone else like her. She stood up for her beliefs and never wavered. As an MP she helped me and my family in our time of need and I am forever grateful. Rest in peace Ann. You were loved and respected.
Remembered by: Gill Howard
I’m so sorry to hear off your awful passing and my thoughts are with your friends and family. I know everyone will share their fond memories of you of your time as an mp but I must share you gave me my favourite scene of all time im big brother that makes me laugh every time without fail when you was attempting to straighten your hair! I hope you are at peace
Remembered by: Zoe
RIP Ann met you lots of times a truly lovely Lady.
Remembered by: Derek Wickwar
So sad Anne is no longer with us. Such a great MP for Maidstone and a great human being. Straight talking and honest. They don't make them like this anymore. Will be sadly missed.
Remembered by: Mark T
You truly were a remarkable lady.you helped me out to get my son back into school.it was a pleasure to have met you.rest in peace xx
Remembered by: Lisa Gilham
Wonderful lady, so genuine and kind, I had the deepest respect for Anne even when I did not always share her views. I met Anne years ago when she helped me with a home issue,I will never forget her kindnesses, may your soul know justice Anne, RIP
Remembered by: Susan Tostevin
I met Ann many times through my work at two different jobs in Maidstone and she always remembered my name and chatted. I admired her forthright manner and her enthusiasm for anything she was involved in. II send my love to her Family and Friends.
Remembered by: Carolyn Carter
"Keep Dancing" in God's garden
Remembered by: Jennifer Alleyne
I remember Ann as a great constituency MP who served the people of Maidstone for many years. I also remember her visiting the wards at Maidstone Hospital on Christmas morning and meeting my Mother who was very ill. She gave my Mother a small gift and her visit really cheered my Mother. Rest in peace Ann. You will be remembered for your kindness and dedication.
Remembered by: Susan Rolfe
A strong woman who stood up for what she believed in. A very sad loss. RIP Ann.
Remembered by: Ben
Such a lovely lady, loved her honestly and she had a great sense of humour, may you rest in peace.
Remembered by: Sue L
I met Anne when my daughter was just 8 months old with concerns regarding criminal activity. She was forthright, honest, sympathetic but reassuring. I immediately liked her and respected her. She was direct but honest . She had opinions. So do I . She listened to mine . I listened to hers. A fantastic woman whom i admired. Her murder has shocked me to tears. I just cannot believe it. This was no way for her to leave us. RIP Anne you were awesome!
Remembered by: Carol Mullins
I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Ann Widdecombe. She was a woman of conviction who served in public life for many years and never shied away from standing up for what she believed.The circumstances of her passing make this loss all the more tragic. My sincere condolences go to her family, friends, and all those who knew and cared for her. May she rest in peace.
Remembered by: Nick Lucas
A remarkable person who will be immensely missed. Ann had a heart of gold and truly took a genuine interest in her constituents concerns. She was feisty, humorous, outspoken, tenacious and genuinely cared. She made frequent visits to Maidstone Hospital, including Christmas Day, with gifts for patients. Such a sad and unnecessary loss.
Remembered by: Leila
This lady helped my late husband we were truly greatfull giving him a bit more freedom RIP Ann xxx
Remembered by: Annette Hayman
Rip
Remembered by: Jason damms
I met Ann at her book signing in Maidstone many years ago. She lit the room up with her wonderful sparkly personality and clearly enjoyed taking questions from us all. ‘Don’t just ask me about Strickly’ she announced! I asked about her appearing on Saturday Kitchen when James Martin. She didn’t much like the food or the wine! Very refreshing feedback that shocked Mr Martin!!!! I loved her attitude to life. Rest In Peace dear lady.
Remembered by: Victoria Newport
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