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.
You were a great lady, Ann, and spoke common sense with humour and dignity. You will be greatly missed.
Remembered by: Jayne Murphy
R I P Ann you will be sorely missed thank you for your contribution to public life and the British people
Remembered by: Lynne Bailey
A sad ending to a life.
Remembered by: victoria
From All the White family in Hatfield, we are so sad that you have been taken from us in this horrendous way. You gave so much to the country and thank you.Thoughts and love to your family and your little cat. 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
Remembered by: Barbara White
I remember Anne very well. When I was political correspondent for the Kent Messenger Group in the 1990s, she was unfailingly kind and forthcoming with comments. When we were working to secure a gallery pass to cover the House of Commons, she was supportive and helpful towards local journalism. Anne was always fun to talk to, and a pleasure to interview. To think that her life ended in fear and brutality is heartbreaking, especially, if the motive, was to snuff out her public statements, whether you agree with them or not. We need more outspoken iconoclasts such as Anne, so that we can enjoy diverse views of life. I send heartfelt commiserations to her family.
Remembered by: Keith Nuthall
Such sad news.she spoke her mind & stood her ground. She got things done. She helped my family & I get moved from our flat to our currant house which we were very gratefull for. Rest in peace Anne.
Remembered by: MRS H PALMER
Deeply saddened and shocked by the events surrounding Ann's death. I met her several times and listened to her speak on many occasions. Of all the politicians I have heard she stood out as one not frightened to say what she thought, never intimidated by interviewers, never reading from a pre-written script and confident to answer questions on any subject however challenging. Surely the Prime Minister we never had! Her depth of knowledge and compassion will be my main memory of her.
Remembered by: Judith
Thank you for your years of service, blessings to your friends and family.
Remembered by: Daniel
To the formidable Anne. May you rest in peace as you have served us well but now God has called you to his place of glory. Your work on earth is done but ours has just begun and we will find the truth about your untimely death. Our condolences to Anne’s family and friends. God has taken another angel.
Remembered by: A Maidstone resident
You will forever be in our heart, your wisdom, your strength in your belives have shown us the courage to never give up on things that are important to us, you will be hugely missed beautiful lady, our conolences to the family and friends RIP BEAUTIFUL LADY
Remembered by: Lisa Tordoff
The death of Ann Widdecombe was unbelievable.I have many memories of an amazing woman who called a spade a spade. I was a journalist with the Kent and Sussex Courier and was always delighted when I heard she would give me time to discuss a feature or some project she was keen to share with our readers. Her like will never be seen again. She was feisty and it would have been wonderful to have seen her as our Prime Minister. RIP Ann and thanks for the memories, Trisha.
Remembered by: Trisha Fermor
A kind thoughtful funny lady , who will always be remembered for her straight talking old school common sense and her amazing courage of her convictions.Truly , A Hard Act to Follow My condolences to Ann's family and friends
Remembered by: Diane Reynolds
The world is a sad place now you've left Ann, our terrible loss is heavens gain. Rest in perfect peace.
Remembered by: Teresa
I will miss you Ann so much , I loved seeing you on the tv you always have been a no nonsense lady . Your views and opinions were mine , you said it as it is. RIP Ann you didn’t deserve to die in such a horrible way . I will remember you with affection always
Remembered by: Linda Hadley
RIP in Peace Ann You were a wonder MP and a shining example of what an MP should be. Loved your autobiography the honestly and common sense. Will really miss you on Mike Graham's and Jeremy Vine shows andall shows. You were funny eloquent and full of Common Sense speaker. Fearless and Feisty. Many can learn from you ..
Remembered by: Sarah Bird
Loved you dearly Ann for all you were and all you stood for so passionately. Will miss you greatly. Rest in peace.
Remembered by: Anne
I’m sorry your life was taken so brutally from you Anne, you were a strong woman with good honest beliefs. You will be greatly missed. RIP Gone but, NEVER forgotten x
Remembered by: Jan Donald
Its so sad this lady has gone but for sure she will never be forgotton. Just a lovely lady that wasnt afraid to say what she thought and she had a comical side too. So sad for her family friends and of clurse her felines. God bless you Ann have a good rest you deserve it x x x
Remembered by: Moira Wakeman
Ann you certainly gave me plenty to smile about with your no nonsense attitude and determination to get your point across I would of dearly loved to see you as pm I think you would of been excellent your death as effected many people who you didn’t no or knew your guts and willingness to get stuck in and try new challenges like strictly and bb was a pleasure to see I hope and prey that they catch whoever did this to you and make them pay you certainly didn’t deserve to die the way you did rip ann
Remembered by: Jan
Dear Ann one of a kind never to be repeated. Full of wit , kind, so hard working , loyal. Never to be forgotten. Your dedication to public service too. How terribly sad that life was taken from you in such a manner. May your faith guide you.
Remembered by: Karen Stephen
Anne you were dedicated to all your constituents and gave your life to the service of others. You will be missed. Regards to friends and family
Remembered by: M J Long
You will never be forgotten . A true lady and one that has made a difference. This country is a sad place with you gone 💐💕
Remembered by: Pat K
Outstanding and remarkable ,wonderful woman.I spoke to her when I lived in Maidstone.She advised me and I got excellent results.I will always remember you Ann ,for your understanding and advise .Rest In Peace AnnNever forgotten always be in my heart, condolences to Ann’s family ❤️❤️
Remembered by: Linda
To Ann’s family, friends, and all who knew and respected her,Please accept my sincere condolences.Although I knew Ann only through her public life, I always admired her willingness to stand by her principles. She came across as someone who spoke honestly and acted with integrity—qualities that are becoming increasingly rare, especially in politics. She was prepared to defend what she genuinely believed was in the best interests of the country, regardless of what others might think.Whether people agreed with her or not, her conviction, courage, and dedication to public service earned my respect. She leaves behind a legacy of principled debate and steadfast commitment that will be remembered by many.I hope she will inspire others to hold onto honesty and integrity.My thoughts are with all who loved her.Rest in peace.
Remembered by: Keion S Cripps
I lived in Kent while Ann was the MP for Maidstone. She was a great lady and I loved her appearance on Strictly. This is a terrible way for her to end her life. RIP lovely Ann x
Remembered by: Elizabeth Carter
This is so unfortunate and really unfair rest in peace, I am absolutely heart broken for you. xxx ❤️🙏
Remembered by: Ally
Fond memories of a feisty lady
Remembered by: Ian
So sorry to lose not only a wonderful human being but a true defender of this country speaking the truth from your heart at all times not from an autocue
Remembered by: Dennis Boyd
To a inspiring lady who always made time an held her beliefs she is going to be missed in Devon an the rest of the country RIP Ann
Remembered by: Diana Frost
Rest in peace Anne. So sad that you are no longer here. You were one of a kind and will be missed so very much.
Remembered by: Josephine Norris
There are no words for the brutal loss of Anne. Whats happened we will never understand why. But Anne will leave a big gap in this world.She was an insperation to many women of all ages who admired her tenacious hard working strong values and her ability to never take no for an answer.She will be so sadly missed.Thankyou Anne for all your service to this country and Thankyou for the many times U made me and im sure many others smile.She was a women who will never be forgotten God bless her family and friends at this awful time. Sending prayers love strengh and courage to get through this.R.I.P Anne. Sleep tight xx
Remembered by: Nicola Pearce
so sad for the loss of a wonderful woman, she didn't deserve to die in this way she always stayed true to her beliefs RIP Ann god bless you 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Remembered by: Linda and Michael Kelly
If only they made more like you Ann, this country would be in a much better state. You were strong, brave, courageous, intelligent, funny and an all round wonderful human being, you’ll be missed more than you’ll ever know. I was devastated when I heard you’d left us, but then to hear how you’d gone, broke my heart. God bless you Ann, may you rest in eternal peace 🤍
Remembered by: Rach
Rest easy Ann. A woman after my own heart and said it as it was and was real a real genuine person, kind and funny . May you rest peacefully and keep them all in check up there x
Remembered by: Judith wicks
God Grant Ann Eternal Peace .my thoughts are with family and friends at this very sad time .Godbless you Ann .from south wales
Remembered by: Beverley Beadle
Will be sadly missed. A politician whose views were clear and a rare one at that in the mould of Margaret Thatcher.
Remembered by: Neil Cox
RIP Ann You didn’t deserve to die like that You truly were passionate about politics So very sorry Rest up now
Remembered by: Corinne Johnson
What a breath of fresh air you was.You are now with your Mum and Dad, and hopefully your 2 beloved cats.
Remembered by: Sandy Jones
Hope you rest in peace Ann. You didn’t deserve to die the way you did. I loved watching you on Jeremy Vine. 🙏 the person that did this is punished appropriately 💔
Remembered by: Ann S
Ann we have lost a champion. You we're a unique lady. A person who championed animals and was not afraid to stand up and fight for what you believed.I remember Christmas days when you called in to nursing homes. No cameras, no reporters just shortbreads and houses of parliament humbugs.You had a good sense of humour!We will miss you Ann God bless you.
Remembered by: Shirley Emberley
Remembering a dear friend and colleague of 36 years. The good times we shared when I was your election agent. The continuing friendship since. The horrific circumstances of your death is so deeply upsetting. Rest in Peace Ann.
Remembered by: Brian and Par Moss
What a horrible ending to a wonderful lady, she certainly did not deserve this. RIP Anne.
Remembered by: Jem Ross
My heart goes out to Ann's family and friends. She will be sadly missed xx
Remembered by: Trace Webb
God Bless Ann you were a wonderful special Lady, will be missed 💔
Remembered by: M McGeever
I am deeply sadden to hear of the tragic death of Ann Widdecombe.She was a lovely lady with qualities l admired, we won't see her like again. Rest in Peace Ann in the arms of our Savior. Jesus
Remembered by: Glenys A Grace.
May you rest in eternal peace. thank you for your public service to politics and media. My condolences to your family and friends 🕯️🙏🪽
Remembered by: Lisa Davies
A sad farewell to a very special lady, her patriotism and kindness will be remembered for a very long time. RIP Ann you gave UK your best.
Remembered by: Doreen King
Such a wonderful Lady, she will be sadly missed.RIP lovely Lady God Bless you 🙏🙏🙏
Remembered by: Denise Major
Ann was brill on Celeb Big Brother and Strictly!
Remembered by: Ralph
Sleep tight, a lady of many words,but held in high esteem by many,you will be missed. X
Remembered by: Diane Port
One of God's greatest spokespersons ever. Courageous, honest, loyal, passionate, unwavering. You placed God's word higher than popularity and safety. You were and always be so loved. Thank you. You were there on Merit. Not loved for being "a woman" but for being you. Amen.
Remembered by: George
A wonderful lady!Thank you for being "Ann".Bless you!
Remembered by: Elizabeth Pfister
So sorry to hear this news. I liked Ann Widdecombe and it has upset me hearing about her death.
Remembered by: Edna Blades
Ann, you spoke with conviction and common sense and you were a wonderful MP for Maidstone. Thank you for your compassion for animals, which I have always shared.
Remembered by: Jill Hinde
Rest in peace Ann. A force to be reckoned with, passionate about your beliefs and values Such a tragic loss
Remembered by: Beverley
So shocked and saddened by the news of Ann’s death. She was an amazing woman and will be missed
Remembered by: Marion Jacques
May you rest in peace Ann. I dont think i will get over the way you were taken from us but take comfort from knowing you are with God. You were an amazing inspirational woman who will never be forgotten.
Remembered by: Julie Williams
I am so sorry for your loss. Ann was a fabulous lady and this is such a tragedy. My thoughts are with you at this very sad time.
Remembered by: Janie Barlow
A lady of good moral standards who will be greatly missed.R.I.P Ann a true person to the people 💔⚘️
Remembered by: Angela Geddis
Ann you were a wonderful lady you always spoke from the heart and your principles. Thank you for your service to us all and especially for your love of animals. I am so very sorry about what has happened to you may you rest in peace always God bless you as I am sure he will.
Remembered by: Ann Atkinson
RIP Anne, your be remembered for ever.Taken from the place you should've been safe in.What a nasty world we live in.Now time to rest in heaven.
Remembered by: Dan B
Her Christian Faith governed her life and political philosophy. In everything integrity honesty love and kindness shone through in aspect of her life. We thank the Lord for the life Ann Widdecombe. May the grieving family know the peace of the Lord which passes all understanding
Remembered by: Robert Bruce
Sorry this happened to you. Sleep well Anne x
Remembered by: Sharon Hooper
Thank you for your service Ann. I was a child when you were our MP and I remember my mum reaching out to you for support over something (alas I can't remember what) but I have never forgotten that you helped us. Rest is Peace. Love always.
Remembered by: Jennifer Francis
A truly honest, forthright lady who lived by her Christian values. She shared her opinions but would listen to yours and sadly probably the only MP whose word I actually trusted.
Remembered by: Kay Goad
Always true to her beliefs, one of a kind - she will be missed
Remembered by: Tina
This lady was inspirational.I loved her honesty,She was never afraid to say it as it was. The world has lost a good sole. I feel so sad for her family and friends.RIP Ann.
Remembered by: Linda Pearc
Rest in peace in gods care
Remembered by: Georgina Daniel
So saddened to learn of Ann Widdecombes passing. I met her many years ago at Leeds Castle where she was a guest & I was an employee. Such a lovely lady,warm & friendly. My heart goes out to her family.
Remembered by: Val Doublet
May you rest in peace. Such a strong lady with formidable force and strength, heaven has gained a hero.
Remembered by: Lori
Rest in peace lovely lady a very very truthful lady always in ouŕ hearts x
Remembered by: Anne Binney
Ann..a wonderful lady who I shall miss immensely, god keep her safe.
Remembered by: Miriam parker
One of the best. . . Always passionate in your beliefs. If only there were more like you. . . A strong wonderful woman. So sorry how life ended for you. RIP🙏❤️🙏 Ann.
Remembered by: Pamela Bowhill
Taken too soon, i have no words.
Remembered by: Lawrence… East Sussex
Rest in peace Anne I live in Maidstone and you were massive part of my life growing up visiting MGGS many times where I was a pupil. You shook my hand and your hand was so soft but for women in society you were a leader and so hard and strong. You leave your legacy. Sleep well Angie x
Remembered by: Angie Jone
Rest In Peace beautiful lady. So sad to see you go. Keep them laughing in the next life.
Remembered by: Alison Wainwright
Remarkable lady, meet once and will never be forgotten. May you rest in eternal peace.
Remembered by: Mrs Jane Atkinson
Anne, i was a devoted follower of yours for many years now, also shared your love for animals (especially cats).You were certainly a woman who didn't mince your words (like to think i'm the same) but you believed in what was right, you certainly was/ still are a credit to our countryRIP NOW ANNE 😢 💔💔💔
Remembered by: Christine Town
Thinking of you May you rest in peace Ann.xx
Remembered by: Fran and Kev Grantham.
Ann was a true advocate for the people of Maidstone, formidable and passionate. She dedicated a great portion of her life to public service and she took the role extremely seriously. She is missed and has left a lasting legacy.
Remembered by: Cllr Claudine Russell
No matter your politics or views, everyone is loved by someone and will be much missed. I know you were a lady of strong faith and I pray that Almighty God will grant you eternal rest.
Remembered by: Douglas Hogg
RIP Ann 🙏🏻 what a warrior you was !! So sad…❤️ but the real truth will come out eventually..God Bless xx 💖
Remembered by: Nina
The world has lost a protector of the truth a beacon of light against the darknessAbsolutely a national treasureAnne Will be greatly missedHeaven has another angel
Remembered by: Linda Esau
RIP dear kind strong and quirky Anne, a shining light of hope and strength has now gone from this world, you will always be remembered as a truly honest and decent soul x
Remembered by: May
You were an inspirational woman. Who stood her own in a predominantly male industry. Stuck to your moral compass and was not scared to fight for you believed to be right. May you rest in peace
Remembered by: Maria
Condolences to Ann’s friends and families. She has been taken way too soon . She was a formidable force for common sense and free speech.
Remembered by: Peter Bush
Taken too soon, you stuck to your ideals but were a strong warrior for your beliefs. A great supporter of people and animals.
Remembered by: Pat Davis
Ann was the one person you could count on that when she said she would sort it she did exactly that . She was a great MP for Maidstone & will be missed by many .
Remembered by: Julie Baker
May you rest in peace Ann with your family l am so sorry this happened to you thank you for all the good work you did . God bless sleep tight x
Remembered by: Fran Sait
Haven’t liked a lot of politicians but you were one of a kind straight talking and strong. I hope whoever did this to you get what’s deserved and more may you now RIP xx
Remembered by: Jo Venables
Ann Widdecombe was a beautiful lady inside and out, and did not deserve to die the way she did. You will be sorely missed. RIP lovely lady.
Remembered by: Linda Anderson
Dear Ann l am deeply saddened of the news of your death. Rest Easy Ann and may you be now receiving your Heavenly Reward.
Remembered by: John O ' Brien
There is an Ann Widdecombe shaped gap in this world that can never be filled. She was force of nature and will be sadly missed. Truly one of a kind. God bless you Ann may you rest in His loving arms.
Remembered by: Nicki M
RIP Ann. I'm so sorry this happened to you. Thinking of all of your family and friends at this sad time.
Remembered by: Jessica Lewicz
Sorry hear about Ann Widdecombe she done great job councillors and great missing and we think for she family and friends
Remembered by: Robinson
RIP Ann. You were a very lovely lady. 🙏🏻❤️xxx
Remembered by: Lynn & Allen Harvey
Miss Widdecombe, thank you for standing by your principles and your love of our country and of course God and his son Jesus Christ. May you be at peace after such a violent death. I shall think,of you dancing with angels.
Remembered by: Diana Donald
You had commitments and believes which is rare today.I only tune in to watch strictly come dancing when you were on.And celebrity big brother.You will be missed and deepest condolences to your family and friends
Remembered by: Jo Williams
God bless you, Ann, rest peacefully.My thoughts are with your family and friends.You were an incredible lady.
Remembered by: Anna Larissa Claire
Ann was a shining example of how to live your life according to your faith and belief in God. She was a very strong debater, fighting for what she believed was right, but was always respectful to those whose beliefs differed from her own. She had a great sense of fun, showcased spectacularly on Strictly with Anton. She will be truely missed.
Remembered by: Alison Philips
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