A Tribute to a “Great Lady”: Driver Pays Emotional Farewell to Ann Widdecombe
The nation continues to mourn the loss of Ann Widdecombe, the former Conservative minister and television firebrand, following the tragic news of her death at her Dartmoor home. As police continue their urgent murder investigation, those who knew her best are beginning to speak out—painting a picture of a woman who was as kind as she was formidable.
Peter Horrell, who served as Ann’s driver and personal assistant for years, has broken his silence, offering a poignant tribute to the “superwoman” he had the privilege of driving.
“She Was Brilliant, Absolutely Brilliant”
Speaking to LBC, Peter shared his initial disbelief upon hearing the news. “I thought she’d had a heart attack or a stroke,” he admitted, clearly still shaken by the loss. “Then later it turned out it was a suspected murder. Just shocked, absolutely shocked.”
For Peter, Ann wasn’t just a political figure; she was a vibrant, funny, and deeply human presence. He described her as a woman who never minced her words. “I liked her because if you asked her a question, you’d get a direct answer. There was no mucking about. If you didn’t like the answer, you shouldn’t have asked the question.”
A Life Loved on the Moors
Despite the isolation of her remote cottage in Haytor, Peter revealed that Ann never expressed fear for her safety. On the contrary, she thrived in the solitude of the moors.
“She loved it, she liked being by herself, loved walking up on the moors,” Peter shared. He painted a serene picture of her private life, far removed from the heated political debates of the television studio: “If she came back late-ish, she’d always have the brandy and go for a swim.”
The “Comical” Side of a Political Giant
To the public, Ann was known for her unyielding conservative views and razor-sharp debates. But to those close to her, she was a woman of immense humor. Peter shared a hilarious anecdote from a talk in Whitby, where an audience member asked if she had ever liked anyone in the Labour Party.
Without missing a beat, Ann replied, “Yes, I did actually.” When the man asked who, she quipped, “David Blunkett’s dog.”
“She was very comical, very comical, down to earth, just a great woman,” Peter added.
A Legacy That Can’t Be Replaced
As the investigation into the 78-year-old’s death continues, the sense of loss is palpable. Devon & Cornwall Police have confirmed that the investigation into her death—which they believe occurred shortly after midday on Wednesday, July 8—is moving at a significant pace. While a 26-year-old man was previously arrested, he has since been released and is no longer part of the inquiry.
For Peter, the loss feels permanent. “She was a great politician. She was very strong in her views. I don’t think you’d be able to replace that sort of person, not really.”
Whether she was defending her political stances or lighting up a reality TV set, Ann Widdecombe lived a life that was undeniably her own. As Peter said, “She could be a little bit outspoken at times, but that was Ann.”
Do you have a favorite memory of Ann Widdecombe’s long career, or a moment where her sharp wit made you laugh? Join the conversation in the comments below.