The trial of a 28-year-old man accused of murdering a former Conservative MP has taken a dramatic turn at the Old Bailey.
Joshua Kerry appeared emotionless in the dock as he confirmed his name, date of birth, and address during a brief hearing.
Kerry is accused of attacking 78-year-old Ann Widdecombe in her kitchen, using a hammer to strike her on the head 21 times, the court heard.
Prosecutor Kashif Malik told the court that Kerry allegedly entered Widdecombe's home through the front door and demanded her bank cards and ID.
It is claimed that Kerry was only inside the property for two minutes before leaving and driving off, but the prosecution describes the attack as 'planned and targeted' with 'ferocity of violence'.
Kerry will next appear at the Old Bailey on October 9 after being remanded into custody.
The inquest into Widdecombe's death has also revealed new details about how her body was discovered 'unresponsive with visible injuries' at her home in Haytor, Devon.
Coroner Philip Spinney told the inquest that concerns were raised when Widdecombe became 'uncontactable', prompting an employee to carry out a 'welfare check' at her home.
Widdecombe was a prominent figure in British politics, serving as a Conservative MP in Kent and later as an MEP for the Brexit Party and spokeswoman for Reform UK.
New Prime Minister Andy Burnham has called for a serious review of MPs' safety following Widdecombe's death, with police working closely with parliamentary officials to inform politicians about protection measures in place.
Police enquiries into Kerry's motives are ongoing, including a potential political or terrorist connection.
