I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ann Widdecombe.

Ann first worked with us in 2016 at Bridlington Spa, appearing as the Queen in Snow White. She returned in 2017 to play the Empress in Aladdin at the Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, and then reprised the role of the Queen in Snow White at the Harlequin Theatre, Redhill, 2018.

Her considerable public profile attracted thousands of theatregoers and introduced pantomime to a much wider audience. She had an extraordinary ability to connect with people, both on and off the stage.

What I admired most about Ann was her professionalism and integrity. She was always decisive, often accepting our offers of engagement on the very day they were made. Once rehearsals began, she was fully committed. She was invariably the first member of the cast to be off book and, on more than one occasion, I remember her prompting fellow cast members when needed.

Ann brought her own wonderful sense of humour to every role and was more than happy to poke fun at her political career. Some of the references in the scripts were hilarious – I still remember her first entrance to cries of “Order! Order!” She also threw herself wholeheartedly into the comedy sketches, including the ever-popular ghost gag, and clearly relished every moment.

She genuinely loved performing and was a true team player. Her kindness extended far beyond the stage. She would bring thoughtful gifts for her fellow performers and even took the time to write individual Christmas cards for all of the children in the company – a gesture that was enormously appreciated.

Thanks to her television appearances on Strictly Come Dancing, Celebrity Big Brother and numerous quiz and game shows, she became a tremendous ambassador for our productions and the towns in which we performed, helping to deliver record attendances.

One memory that will always stay with me is that, after every performance, Ann would happily stay to meet audiences, chatting with people of all ages, posing for photographs and signing autographs until the very last person had left the theatre. She never rushed anyone and made everyone feel special.

Thank you, Ann, for the laughter, the professionalism, the generosity and the wonderful memories. I know so many performers, theatre staff and audiences will remember you with great affection.

Ann was a lady of strong convictions. Whatever people’s political views, those of us fortunate enough to work alongside her in pantomime will remember a warm, generous colleague with a sharp wit and a huge heart.