Family, friends and political colleagues have gathered for the funeral of Ann Widdecombe in Devon. 

A Requiem Mass has been held at Buckfast Abbey on Wednesday, where the former Conservative minister and devout Catholic regularly worshipped. 

Widdecombe died on 8th July, having been attacked at her home on Dartmoor, Devon. Joshua Kerry, 28 from Rotherham, has been charged with murder.

Tributes were paid by her nephew Rev Roger Widdecombe and close friend Sir Christian Sweeting. 

Rt Rev David Charlesworth, Abbot of Buckfast, gave the homily about God’s divine grace and Widdecombe’s faith being “the foundation on which she ordered her life”.

He said the politician “fearlessly upheld the moral and social teachings of the Catholic Church” which “certainly upset some”.

He added: “At a time when many regarded religious conviction as something best kept private, she spoke plainly and fearlessly as a Catholic.

“In the midst of the shock, clamour and sometimes unwarranted comment surrounding her death, our response is to pray for the repose of her soul, to give thanks for her fortitude, and offer Holy Mass in this Abbey Church which Ann called her safe haven.

“Here we pray that she has finally been enfolded in the arms of the Risen Lord, where true love and peace reign, and where she will hear the Lord’s words, 'well done, my good and faithful servant.'”

Hymns included Amazing Grace and How Great Thou Art, with great nephew Jem Widdecombe reading from the book of Ecclesiastes. 

Donations made in Widdecombe’s memory will be shared between the Leprosy Mission and Abound, which supports the Christian Endeavour Hostel in India.

Police officers were on patrol outside the Benedictine Abbey before and during the service, which was held privately for family and friends. 

A public memorial for the former prisons minister and Reform UK spokesperson is expected to take place later this year.