Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of former MP and Christian commentator Ann Widdecombe at her home on Dartmoor.
Devon and Cornwall Police said officers were called to a property near Haytor at around 11.40am on Thursday after receiving a report from the ambulance service.
The force said 78-year-old Widdecombe was found dead inside the property with serious injuries.
Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.
Detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Team are carrying out enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding her death.
A police cordon remains in place while forensic examinations continue, with road closures in the area and officers conducting house-to-house enquiries and reviewing CCTV footage.
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said: "This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this difficult time.
“Our murder enquiry is in its early stages but moving at a significant pace. We are deploying all of the necessary resources to find out exactly what has happened and to locate the person responsible who we believe to be a white male.
“I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us.
"We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the vicinity of Haytor Vale, Haytor, or anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage which could assist with our investigation.
"We have an increased uniformed police presence in the area to both support the investigation and provide reassurance to residents. Anyone with concerns can speak with our officers at the scene.
“We will release further information when we are able to do so. In the meantime I would ask people not to speculate about what might have happened, particularly on social media. This is not only potentially harmful to our investigation but also deeply distressing for family and friends of Ann Widdecombe.”
