Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman, has died at the age of 78.Her career spanned decades, including roles as an MP for Maidstone, Home Office and employment minister in Sir John Major's government, and later as a Brexit Party MEP.Widdecombe was a vocal supporter of Brexit and joined Reform UK in 2023.She also gained public recognition for her appearances on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.

Her agents described her as driven by Christian values and public service, noting her continued political engagement despite leaving Parliament 16 years ago.Widdecombe's socially conservative views, including opposition to abortion and comments on the LGBT community, sparked controversy.Nigel Farage praised her role in securing Brexit, while health secretary James Murray acknowledged her impact on UK politics.Her death has prompted reflections on her legacy as both a political figure and a media personality.