MP and author Ann Widdecombe proved a popular guest speaker at a joint-fundraising dinner for the Rotary Clubs of Chigwell, and Loughton & Buckhurst Hill.

The former Tory Home Office Minister regaled an audience at Woolston Manor Golf Club with stories of her early working life in university administration which led to her becoming MP for Maidstone.

Ms Widdecombe also spoke of her numerous TV appearances over the years and how she found time to write her four novels a number of which were on sale on the day with a third of the proceeds donated to charity.

She told the audience she would be retiring at the next election to focus more on her writing career.

Rotary Club of Chigwell member Stan Dover said: “After a very interesting talk Ms Widdecombe happily circulated around the room answering questions from guests and replying in her usual frank and open manner. Finally she was given a standing ovation.”

The event raised £1600 which will be split among Chigwell Riding Trust for Special Needs, Jubilee Lodge Holiday Home for the Disabled and the Rotary Foundation.