A MURDER investigation has been launched into the death of former Tory MP and minister Ann Widdecombe.

The ex-prisons minister, who was 78, later became a Brexit Party MEP and subsequently a Reform UK spokeswoman.

She also found fame outside politics after starring in Strictly Come Dancing.

Ms Widdecombe was found dead at her home in Dartmoor, where she lived alone, having sustained “serious injuries,” Devon and Cornwall Police said.

A manhunt has been launched for a white male believed to be responsible.

Detective chief inspector Ilona Rosson said: “Our murder inquiry 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.”

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the circumstances around her death are “extremely distressing,” adding: “My thoughts are with Ann’s family and loved ones.

“The Home Office stands ready to provide whatever support [police] need with their ongoing investigation.”