Security at Ann Widdecombe's house beefed up to stop visitors 'taking selfies'

Security at Ann Widdecombe's house beefed up to stop visitors 'taking selfies' The former Conservative MP, minister, and Reform UK spokesperson was found dead in July at her home in Haytor, Devon - Joshua Kerry will stand trial for her alleged murder next year More security measure have reportedly been fitted to Ann Widdecombe's house to stop visitors 'taking selfies' after she was found dead there in July. Ex-Tory MP, MEP, and minister Miss Widdecombe, 78, was a Reform UK spokesperson when she died on July 8 after she was hit over the head with a hammer 21 times at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor. The idyllic home quickly became a major crime scene as police officers swarmed the area. Large wooden gates are said to have been installed across the entrance to the property and secured by a thick chain and padlock, The Sun reports. One villager said that since the police left the scene, it has 'attracted lots of people wanting selfies outside or just trying to stare through the windows', reports Devon Live. They added that the Widdecombe’s Rest sign has also 'disappeared' after it was removed from the property. Joshua Kerry, 28, of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, is accused of Ann Widdecombe's murder. He also faces a charge of preparing terrorist acts, including an allegation he attempted to break into Nigel Farage's home. Following a hearing at the Old Bailey in July, a provisional trial date was listed for June 8, 2027. Last week, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said security arrangements for high-profile public figures, including politicians and royals will be reviewed urgently after the killing of Ann and other recent events. The Home Secretary told MPs that dedicated police support will be expanded to cover former MPs, party spokespeople, and others not already covered. Ms Mahmood voiced her "sympathy and solidarity" with Nigel Farage after it was alleged that the man suspected of murdering Ms Widdecombe had travelled to his home more than a year earlier. She said: "Those who enter public life do so to serve. Robust debate and criticism are part of the job. Threats, abuse and violence are not. An attack on any individual in public life is an attack on every one of us, and it is an attack on democracy itself. "We owe it to those public servants we have tragically lost, and to everyone who believes in a fair and open country, to ensure those who serve receive the protection they deserve." Ms Mahmood announced a review will be carried out by Sir Stephen Lovegrove, who will examine whether there is adequate protection for those most at risk. This includes "high-profile individuals" including Royals, government ministers, MPs, councillors and other political figures. Ms Mahmood told the Commons it will build on the work of Sir Robert Buckland, who is conducting a separate review into the murder of Sir David Amess.