Westminster Magistrates’ Court has heard that Ann Widdecombe was hit on the head with a hammer 21 times.

The former politician and devout Catholic was found dead last week. Joshua Kerry, 28-years old from Rotherham, appeared in court for the first time today, charged with her murder.

Kerry spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth. He did not indicate a plea. 

Prosecutors revealed it was Ann’s gardener who found her body, having been alerted by her management that she was not responding to messages. She was found lying face down on her kitchen floor. 

Allegedly, the attacker wore black gloves, and was in her home for approximately two minutes. Ann was thought to be sitting in a chair at the time of the attack. Prosecutors said that after attacking the 78-year-old, he tipped her from her chair, stole her wallet and drove off in his red Vauxhall Corsa. 

Kerry appeared at the Old Bailey later on Tuesday and was remanded into custody. He will next appear at the same court on 9 October for a case management hearing, then a plea and trial preparation hearing on 20 November. A provisional trial date has been set for 8 June 2027.