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.
In memory of a wonderful MP, who dedicated 23 years service to the people of Maidstone. RIP Ann, you will always be remembered.
Remembered by: angela poletti
RIP Ann,A much love decent and honest lady sincere condolences to your love ones and friends the world is a darker place without your shining light 🙏 ✨️ ❤️ JudyDorchester Dorset
Remembered by: Judy Smith
So very sad at her passing in such horrible circumstances. Just hope she didn't suffer to much. Loved her on Strictly made me laugh lots. Rest in peace 🙏 😥💚
Remembered by: June Woods
Such sad news. You were a great lady. R.I.P. Ann
Remembered by: Joanne Messam
RIP Ann, Such a wonderful outspoken woman. We will all miss you. Heaven has gained another Angel xx
Remembered by: Janet Curtis
RIP. A brave and principled lady who stood up for the people and country that she love.
Remembered by: Pat Shingleton
May you Rest In Peace. Will always remember you and Anton on Strictly.
Remembered by: Amanda
Rest in peace Ann. Ann would always come into my parents shop and always made time to chat and talk about local issues. An amazing woman never to be forgotten x
Remembered by: Charles
🌹🙏🏻💔 … you will always be remembered for your courage and love of animals.
Remembered by: Anne E Roberts
An amazing lady, so sorry for what has happened. You will never be forgotten x
Remembered by: Janice Grayson, Leeds
RIP lovely lady, God Bless you
Remembered by: Jacqueline Hayward
I never met you Ann but you were a constant figure in my life of a straight talking, feisty, independent woman. You spoke passionately about the things that mattered to you. You seemed kind, funny and approachable. I am so very sorry that your well deserved rest was stolen from you in such a cruel way. Rest in peace.
Remembered by: Tara Stree
Rest in peace lovely Lady. Funny feisty honourable unafraid to speak your mind. I will miss you on the jeremy vine show. 🙏
Remembered by: Carolann winch
What a woman x u will be missed by many xx
Remembered by: Debbi Kent
You will always be in our hearts. You were always up for a laugh. RIP
Remembered by: Yvonne Finn
In the early 1990s, Alabaster Passmore was expanding rapidly in a buoyant marketplace and economy. The company had borrowed from the Midland Bank to help fund this expansion. However the tide turned and along came the ‘crash’ in the economy. At this point, the bank contacted us to call in the debt but it was impossible for us to make this repayment without going into administration. We contacted Ann, the local MP and she visited us in Tovil at a hastily convened Board Meeting. We explained our dilemma and I will never forget her comment…’leave this with me, I love taking on the big banks!’ Immediately she contacted the Chairman of the Midland Bank and told them that their action would lead to the loss of nearly 300 jobs in the Maidstone area. As a result, they backed down and, although the company had to operate within extremely stringent financial terms, we were able to keep going for nearly two more years, thanks to Ann’s intervention, before eventually going into administration. Ann was forthright, caring and effective in her political actions and an excellent MP. Whatever one may have thought about her more recent political persuasion, she will be greatly missed. Alabaster Passmore will forever be indebted to her. RIP Ann…
Remembered by: Nigel Passmore
You leave a void in this world. Highly respected and loved. God grant you peace forever. You will never be replaced
Remembered by: Jane Pimlott
Very lovely lady with great values as well as a great sense of humor. Will be sadly missed by millions but will be remembered forever. Rip
Remembered by: Seany
I met you in 1993 when you opened our business premises. I was very young and slightly in awe. You were a formidible woman who passionately fought for her beliefs. Sleep tight AnnRest in peace.
Remembered by: Tracy Shaw
I loved Ann she was funny and always spoke her mind. One in a million. RIP Ann
Remembered by: Sally Barry
RIP Ann 🙏 A woman of strong beliefs You didnt deserve this Lets hope there is justice for you 🙏 Thoughts with your family and friends at this very sad time.
Remembered by: Patricia wright
God Bless you Ann a formidable lady. Loved by so many. Rest in eternal peace Ann 🙏🙏❤️❤️
Remembered by: Pam Murphy
A tour deforce , she stood by what she believed in and wouldnt budge. I for one admired her greatly and feel so sad that she was taken in such an horrific way. Rest in peace anne, we will not forget you
Remembered by: Linda Winser
Ann, you were an absolute icon of Britain! A very intelligent lady who spoke from the heart without prompts and notes and only wanted the best for your country. The way in which you passed is horrific and has saddened me deeply. I hope that you rest in peace for eternity ❤️
Remembered by: Angela Crarey
Such a sad loss. Rest in peace beautiful lady 😞
Remembered by: Denise Hayle
There will never be another like Ann, this World is truly a sadder place now. A true warrior.Rest in Eternal Sunshine
Remembered by: Yvonne Ratledge
Shocking to learn of your death and the horror of what you must have gone through. I always loved watching you on various TV appearances - loved your voice, loved your passion as well as your great sense of humour such as when you appeared on Strictly Come Dancing. What a trooper you were and the United Kingdom is a wee bit worse off now that you are no longer here. Rest in Peace, Ann.
Remembered by: W. Rule
Rest in peace Ann. A true British treasure and will never be forgotten. Condolences to all of your family and friends. A sad loss indeed.
Remembered by: Jo Finniss
So sorry to Anne"s family and friends my condolences to you all on such an horrific act , Rest in peace Anne
Remembered by: Nikki wilson
A very sad loss for so many reasons, Ann’s family, friends, colleagues and the community of people whose hearts she touched. A lady with strong views, often controversial but honest. She will be greatly missed RIP Ann.
Remembered by: Valerie Harle
My admiration of Anne never faltered even when I held opposing views. If only we had more PoliticiansOf her calibre.
Remembered by: Christine Kerr
Lovely 🥰 lady r I p
Remembered by: Sharon Courtney
RIPAnn rest in peace you did not deserve this BLESS
Remembered by: Mavis. Yeoman
Eternal rest grant unto Ann oh lord and let perpetual light shine upon her may she rest in peace Amen 🙏🙏
Remembered by: Aileen
RIP Ann Widdecombe. Thank you for entertaining us on strictly come dancing. Saddened to hear of your passing.
Remembered by: Betty Rubble
Saddened to hear of your passing, shocked at the manner in how you passed. R.I.P Ann.
Remembered by: J Devereux
Beautiful lady, inside and out. Rest in peace
Remembered by: Lynne
Very sad for this great lady who served the country with passion. Went to a few rallies where she spoke and was fantastic. May you rest in peace with the lord.. watch over this country.. you are home with the lord. One blessed missed lady.
Remembered by: Diane Parker
We have lost an inspirational lady and role model. Rest in peace Ann
Remembered by: Dors Harris
Lovely honest lady, you will be missed.
Remembered by: Annabel
❤️🙏 Rest in Peace Ann xx
Remembered by: Michelle Sedge
I loved anne she didnt hold back on what she said she spoke her mind loved her on strictly very feisty person such a tradgedy her death rip❤️❤️❤️❤️
Remembered by: Jane
An amazing person who gave her all to public service. We carry your wisdom and love in our hearts, forever grateful.
Remembered by: Margaret Curtis
So sad .A lovely lady. God bless ann.R I P xxx
Remembered by: June Hawken
A lady clearly of great integrity compassion and kindness. Human values to which we should all try aspire. You will be very much missed. God Bless.
Remembered by: Mrs Sharonne Lane
Rest inPerfect peace Anne. You did not deserve to die the way you did. Sleep peacefully ❤️💔❤️💔
Remembered by: Anne murpg
I'm not British so I have very little knowledge of Ann's political career. Ann Widdecombe came to our attention when she featured on Strictly come dancing. Our son was 4 years old at the time, and I will always remember how much joy she brought to our home every Saturday evening. He looked forward to watching her every week and was devastated when she was eliminated. It was a wonderful series of Strictly. Sincerest condolences to her family, and may you rest in peace Ann with all those you loved gone before you.No-one deserves what happened to you.
Remembered by: Martina Flynn Shanahan
Never new or met Ann, not in her constituency, live on Sheppey but saddened at her death, so very tragic. Condolences to her family & friends. I think they broke the mould when they made Ann, a true 1 off. RIP ❤️
Remembered by: Robert Holding
My condolences are with your family and friends dear Ann , although I never met you , you were an amazing woman both in politics and on TV especially in Strictly. RIP dear lady .
Remembered by: Susan Storr
My dear Ann. I was so sorry to hear of your passing but that sorrow has turned to anguish to hear it was not a natural passing. You were always forthright, caring and humorous. I am sure you will be greatly missed by all who you touched. May you Rest in Peace.
Remembered by: Maureen Horswell
So sad to hear the devastating hoffific way in which you died, RIP my fruend may God hold you and comfort you in his arms. God bless sleep in peace 🙏🙏💕 x
Remembered by: Val Colin
Rest in peace Ann
Remembered by: M. Martin
Rest in eternal peace Lovely lady .You were one a kind Ann you will always be remembered as an empathetic human being towards others , you are unique in every way ...🙏
Remembered by: Joanne Urban
Rest in peace and at least you are in a better place now, you were a woman with a backbone and a voice and you loved cats xx
Remembered by: carolyn brown
Ann you were such a formidable woman in our society, one of the best, if only there were more like you. So much could be learnt from you by many and you still had so much to give. You will never be forgotten and I hope you will be remembered in our political history books. Perhaps a lot of people in our Parliament today could learn a few things from you because if they were half what you were our Parliament would be a far better place, our MPs would be far better people and consequently so would our society. Our country is even worse now having lost you. Many of us are reeling with sorrow at losing you and finding it hard to comprehend . RIP and Rise in Glory
Remembered by: Pamela Hood
An honest and kind woman. Will be sadly missed.
Remembered by: Judy Brown
RIEP peace Ann. Such a formidable and wonderful lady. Always true to your beliefs. You would have made the best PM this country has seen in a lond while. Love Anne Rushton and Neil Tate ❤️
Remembered by: Anne Rushton
May you now Rest In Paradise Ann x
Remembered by: Pauline
A truly great lady, tragically cut off while still effectively in the prime of life, and still with so much to give.
Remembered by: William Wallace
My sincere Condolences to Ann's family and many friends. Britain has lost a huge portion of its parliamentary integrity, we are much poorer without Ann's honesty, passion for justice and her depth of character.RIP lovely lady
Remembered by: Tracy Morgan
So so sad thinking of all the family and friends in difficalt time R.I.P ANN x
Remembered by: Elizabeth Reid
Rest in deserved peace Ann. Thank you.
Remembered by: Carole Walker
RIP you will be sadly missed sleep well
Remembered by: Howard Garner
So so sad …. Going to be missed . Lovley lady …sending preys and hugs
Remembered by: Susan
I didn’t know you personally, never met you but somehow feel as though I have lost someone close. Clearly the woman I saw so many times in public life had a greater effect than I realised. Rest in peace Ann and my condolences to your friends and family.
Remembered by: Sandra Hawes
Christmas day 2005 - maidstone hospital. You came and visited the mums and babies on the ward and stayed to chat. Such a geniunely kind and caring lady. Will always appreciate you taking the time out, especially on christmas day. Fondly remebered.
Remembered by: Kirstie Martin
RIP Ann, you were one of the best. Straight to the point, honest and true to your beliefs.This country needs more like you.😇
Remembered by: Cynthia
I am devastated by what has happened to you Ann. You are constantly in my thoughts. God bless you.
Remembered by: Susan Shaw
I remember when she succeeded John Wellsa massive breath of fresh air you put Maidstone on the map. In my opinion you were what an MP should be and until the end you stood stood up for the people. Never overdid the Parliamentary expenses like most others in the House. Sadly missed
Remembered by: Mike Mahoney
RIP Ann such a strong courageous lady who stood up for what she believed!! You will be sorely missedXx
Remembered by: Deborah Culnane
Rest in peace 🙏🙏🙏 Hope you're practicing your Strictly routine up there 🤗
Remembered by: Karen McNally
Integrity, decency, morals and a fearlessness. True to herself but never nasty. Could laugh at herself and had a twinkle in her eyes. I wish there were more politicians with her honest convictions. Rest in peace Anne.
Remembered by: P Mayfield.
Very sad news indeed . I hope you rest in peace and are dancing in the heavens. Was a pleasure to have met you on the high seas.
Remembered by: Gavin Chambers
Rest in eternal peace lovely lady
Remembered by: Jacqueline Cartwright
Britain has lost one of it most valuable national treasures, a jewel in Britain's crown. Rest in peace dear Ann, you will be missed so much, but never will you be forgotten
Remembered by: Marjorie Alcock
Anne i didnt know you but you were a down to earth straight talker passionate about your beliefs a strong indepent lady and you didnt deserve to meet your end the way you did rip Lynn
Remembered by: Lynn Flavell
I’m so sorry this happened to you, when you were a Maidstone MP you always helped. Bless you sleep well
Remembered by: Paul Randall
Rest in peace , you will be sorely missed.
Remembered by: Maria
God rest her beautiful soul. Such a horrible ending to a much loved lady & life. 🙏🙏💔💔💔
Remembered by: Julie Reilly
Ann's death has been a terrible shock to me, she was a totally authentic person and politician full of character and commitment, and full of fun not taking herself to seriously. R.I.P Ann
Remembered by: Patricia Christensen
May the choir of angels sing thee to eternal rest.
Remembered by: Marguerite Morgan
Rest in peace Ann a well spoken, full of character lady will be missed
Remembered by: Caroline
Truly devastated at the death of such a lovely person , strong willed and determined . Deepest condolences to Ann's family and friends , she will be sadly missed by all who loved and respected her .
Remembered by: Christine Barker
I loved, respected and admired Anne. I found her straight forward and I believe she was a good hard working decent person with admirable standards. I often spoke about her with affection and amusement at her direct and no nonsense approach. I will miss her. Long may her memory last. RIP Anne.
Remembered by: Andrew Priestley
A huge loss to society. Such a powerhouse, with great morals, not afraid to stand up for her beliefs! I have always found her interesting, witty and entertaining Rest in peace Anne knowing you have made a difference to this world
Remembered by: L. Waddington
RIP You believed in free speech.
Remembered by: Maureen Ellis
Anne was a principled, lovely lady. She stood by her beliefs. I admired her. She steadfastly represented my home town of Maidstone for many years, we could not have had a better representative.We have lost the ability to disagree amiably with one another.I hope her death creates a turning point for debate where we can disagree but still respect one another.Rest in peace lovely Anne. Your legacy will live on.
Remembered by: Pip Devoy
RIP Lovely Lady
Remembered by: Rosalyn Turpin
Rest In Peace Ann, you were a champion for animals and one of life’s great characters.The world was a better place with you in it
Remembered by: Claire
I met Ann many years ago and she was the most funny and articulate lady I have known. She was a fantastic MP for Maidstone and her life has been ended far too soon. My condolences to her family and she will be missed.
Remembered by: Denise Petro
I hope you rest in peace and haunt the person who did this to you for the rest of their life. 💐
Remembered by: Sarah
Such a tragedy after years of public service. Hopefully, protection will be increased for MP's. You will be remembered by millions of people from around the world. Duty done, may you rest in peace with the gratitude of the nation
Remembered by: Sean Irwin
I m saddened by your passing and even more so by the circumstances. You were a wonderful woman and MP.
Remembered by: Tricia Bennett-Yard
Thank you for your lovely witness to so many people.
Remembered by: Loretta Reid& Family
So very sorry to hear that Ann has passed away. A very special woman with a strong heart and personality. She spoke passionately about things she believed in. I loved how she stood firm and supported people who needed help. Greatly admired and will be sadly missed. Condolences and thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time xx
Remembered by: Lisa Wright
Rest in peace Ann you were taken from us far to early you will very sadly missed
Remembered by: Alison Norris
Thank you for your service to Maidstone and the country over the years.God bless.
Remembered by: Toni May
Shocked and greatly saddened by what happened. I had great respect for Ann. I met her several times when she was MP for Maidstone and she was an impressive speaker at Bearsted Local History Society. We need more caring, forthright and honest people like her. Deepest condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.
Remembered by: Delia Roberts
I met Ann once in my place of work,what a warmhearted kind lady,with such encouraging words ,I will never forget her.My heart breaks for her.You are safe now Ann no one can hurt you anymore.It was an honour to have met you and to have shaken your hand.God Bless.xxx
Remembered by: Petra B Scott-Engels
Condolences to your Family and Friends ..such a horrible world ..Rest in Paradise you lovely lady x
Remembered by: Lisa
In relation to personal data and data protection, refer to our privacy notice.