from Religion Media Centre
The funeral of Ann Widdecombe, murdered in her home in Devon, will be held at Buckfast Abbey where she regularly attended Mass.
The Abbey is home to a community of Benedictine monks and welcomes visitors.
The Father Abbot of Buckfast Abbey has issued a statement saying the Abbey is liaising “closely with the family regarding funeral arrangements” and that further details would be shared in due course. He said the community is holding Ann, her family and friends in prayer at this difficult time: “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 Monastic Community extended their heartfelt condolences to her family and friends. Ann Widdecombe died after 21 blows to the head. Joshua Kerry, from Rotherham, is in custody charged with her murder.