Nigel Farage has paid tribute to Ann Widdecombe as an “extraordinary woman” ahead of a requiem mass for the former Tory politician.
Her funeral service is taking place later at Buckfast Abbey in Devon, where she regularly worshipped.
Miss Widdecombe, who was Reform UK’s justice spokesman, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on July 8.
The order of service for the requiem mass shows tributes will be paid by the Rev Roger Widdecombe, Miss Widdecombe’s nephew, and Sir Christian Sweeting, a close friend.
Tributes have come in from senior Reform figures who praised her memory and dedication to service.
Writing on social media, Mr Farage said: “Today is the day we remember Ann Widdecombe. Ann was an extraordinary woman who left a serious mark on British politics. She will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, Ann.”
Reform UK’s Deputy Leader Richard Tice said: “We will treasure our memories with you and never forget your life and legacy”, while former home secretary Suella Braverman called her: “A warrior. A patriot. An inspiration. May her memory be a blessing.”
Runcorn and Helsby MP Sarah Pochin added: “Her warmth, kindness and friendship meant so much to so many, and she will never be forgotten. May she rest in peace.”
Nigel Farage paid tribute to Ann Widdecombe
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A statement from the Abbey said Miss Widdecombe would be “missed and fondly remembered” and “many in our worshipping community knew her as a kind and warm character”.
She said: “Ann was a woman of profound faith, a faith which found expression in the public forum of politics.
“Ann was unafraid to express her unwavering convictions, formed through her Roman Catholic faith. She had a sharp intellect and was a dedicated public servant.”
A public memorial for Miss Widdecombe will be held later this year.
Floral tributes have started arriving at the abbey
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Ann Widdecombe’s funeral is taking place later today
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GETTYThe statement continued: “Ann was a woman of profound faith, a faith which found expression in the public forum of politics.
“Ann was unafraid to express her unwavering convictions, formed through her Roman Catholic faith. She had a sharp intellect and was a dedicated public servant.”
The order of service states donations made in memory of Miss Widdecombe will be divided between the Leprosy Mission and Abound, supporting the projects of the Christian Endeavour Hostel (CEH) in India.
Miss Widdecombe was first elected as a Conservative MP in Maidstone, Kent, in 1987, was a prisons minister in the 1990s and later became an MEP for the Brexit Party.
Ann Widdecombe at the opposition dispatch box in 1998
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Ann Widdecombe is set to be remembered at a public memorial later this year | GETTY
At the time of her death she was a spokesman on immigration and justice for Reform UK.
She also found fame outside politics, appearing on Strictly Come Dancing, Doctor Who and Celebrity Big Brother.
Joshua Kerry, 28, of Byrley Road in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has been charged with her murder.
He is due to attend a plea hearing at the Old Bailey in November and a trial at the same court in June next year.