As mentioned, Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez has defended the force, as "there's been some commentary about the way Devon and Cornwall police have communicated during the early stages of this case".

It follows comments from Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman, who told a news conference on Friday the force had ruled out terrorism and had no information to suggest Widdecombe's death was a "politically motivated crime".

But on Monday it was announced counter terrorism police would take over the investigation. A 28-year-old suspect - who was originally arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday - was re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.

Hernandez says "it is not unusual" in a fast-paced investigation for the nature of the inquiry to change as more information comes to light.

Image source, Devon & Cornwall OPCC

We can now bring you the full statement from Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez:

“As Police and Crime Commissioner, I have personally spoken to the Head of Counter Terrorism, Laurence Taylor, to thank him for the resources he offered early on, and to seek the reassurance that there has been a smooth handover of the investigation.

"There’s been some commentary about the way Devon and Cornwall police have communicated during the early stages of this case but, as the Home Secretary said yesterday, it is not unusual that in a fast-paced investigation, more information comes to light that changes the nature or the character of what the police are dealing with.

"Since the beginning of this investigation, I have been briefed by the Chief Constable regularly, and I am confident that Devon and Cornwall Police has provided a substantial and professional response to Ann Widdecombe’s death.

"I am particularly grateful to members of the public, who have provided information and assisted officers in progressing the investigation.

"My thoughts remain with Ann’s family and friends. I have been touched by the stories I have heard from those who lived closed to her on Dartmoor. Whatever you thought of her politics, Ann was an exceptionally likeable character.

"When I visited the scene on Sunday, I was impressed by the efforts being made by the police to speak to residents and address their very understandable concerns.

"I am sure the impact of this major operation has meant that some people have had to wait longer than they would expect for routine services, or have not yet had their issues resolved.

"I have been assured officers and staff will be returning to business as usual over the coming days, which are also expected to be particularly busy with two final legs of the World Cup and the start of school holidays.”

Image source, Getty Images

Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez has defended the force over its handling of the investigation into the alleged murder of Ann Widdecombe.

In a statement, Hernandez says there has been "commentary" over the force's communication.

She says she is "confident that Devon and Cornwall Police has provided a substantial and professional response to Ann Widdecombe’s death".

The 78-year-old was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday. She had sustained serious injuries.

Police are continuing to question a 28-year-old white British man who was arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.

We will bring you updates on the case on this page. Stay with us.