Police have released a new statement after receiving more than 120 reports regarding the suspected murder of Ann Widdecombe. Devon and Cornwall Police said there is still no information to suggest that the incident was terrorism related or politically motivated, after Ms Widdecombe was found dead with serious injuries at her Devon home on Thursday morning.

They said the investigation into her death has continued to develop over the past 24 hours. Shortly after 9pm on Saturday July 11, a 28-year-old white British man was arrested at an address in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on suspicion of the 78-year-old's murder. At this point they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the murder.

However, Devon and Cornwall Police retain primacy of this investigation and detectives remain open minded about any potential motive.

"The local community can also expect to see a heightened police presence in the coming weeks to provide reassurance – however I wish to reassure you that we do not have any information to suggest there is any wider threat to the public.

"We are grateful to our colleagues in South Yorkshire and they will continue to support us as our investigation continues.

"Over the past few days, we have received in excess of 120 reports of information into our Major Incident Public Portal. We thank those who have reported their information to us and ask anyone who has not yet submitted relevant information to us, to do so as a priority."

They urged the public not to speculate as it hinders the investigation and it is upsetting for Ms Widdecombe's friends and family.

The statement continued: "We are aware of online and public speculation, particularly with regard to motive – again I urge people not to share or engage with speculation.

"It is unhelpful and distressing to Miss Widdecombe’s friends and family and potentially harmful to our investigation.

"We understand that there is a huge appetite for information – but progressing and protecting the integrity of our investigation is paramount.

"We recognise that there is still some way to go in this case and the release of any information will continue to be a decision made on an operational basis.

"I would like to thank local communities, the wider public and the media for their ongoing support and patience, and would ask them to continue to support us in the next stage of our investigation."

Any relevant information, images or footage can be reported via the Major Incident Public Portal.