The funeral of Ann Widdecombe, the former politician and regular worshipper at Buckfast Abbey, will take place this week as a private Requiem Mass, with her family requesting that the press stay away to allow them to grieve in peace.
In an official statement published on the Abbey's website, Fr Abbot and the Monastic Community of Buckfast confirmed that the service will be held on August 12, conducted by The Right Reverend David Charlesworth, Abbot of Buckfast. The family have asked that only Ann's closest relatives and friends attend, ensuring the ceremony remains a dignified and private occasion.
Family's wishes and press restrictions
The statement read: "Ann's family are deeply grateful for the many messages of sympathy and support they have received. The family wish to hold a private Requiem Mass, attended by Ann's closest family and friends, so that they may gather in remembrance and grief with dignity and peace."
It continued: "The family respectfully request that members of the press do not attend, to preserve their privacy, and to avoid disruption to those attending. Buckfast Abbey asks the press for understanding and restraint at this time, to respect the family's wishes. There will be no access to the Abbey Church on the day of the Requiem Mass."
The Abbey has confirmed that the Order of Service will be published online at 9am on the day of the Requiem Mass, containing the texts of the Scripture Readings, Prayers, Hymns and musical items to be sung by the Abbey Choir. The Homily will be made available at 2pm on the same day, and a "small number of official photographs" will be released after the funeral.
No public tributes or floral tributes
In line with the family's wishes, there will be no Book of Condolence, and members of the public are kindly requested not to bring floral tributes. Ann was a regular worshipper at the Abbey Church, attending the Sunday Solemn Mass as well as the church's Holy Week and Easter services.
Following her passing on July 8 at her Dartmoor home, Fr Abbot and the Monastic Community of Buckfast paid tribute, saying: "Many in our worshipping community knew her as a kind and warm character. She will be missed and fondly remembered. 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. Fr Abbot and the Monastic Community extend their heartfelt condolences to her family and friends."
Buckfast Abbey's historical significance
Buckfast Abbey, located in Buckfast, near Buckfastleigh in Devon, is home to a community of Roman Catholic Benedictine Monks who lead their lives according to the ancient rule of St Benedict. The site holds great historical significance, with the original Abbey founded in 1018 AD by King Cnut, and it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
