Outspoken Tory Ann Widdecombe is to voice her views on women's issues when she visits south Essex.

Two hundred members of the South East Essex Federation of the Townswomen's Guild will be meeting Ann on Monday.

The MP will host the guild's annual meeting at the Paddocks, in Long Road, Canvey, and give a speech. Val Ott, central council delegate for the area, said: "We will be absolutely delighted to welcome Ann Widdecombe as our guest speaker.

"She will have an audience of 200 women and is sure to enjoy the meeting."

This is the first time the AGM has been held on the island, to the delight of the 60 members from the Canvey Townswomen's Guild.

Chairman Iris Barber and secretary Maureen Campbell said: "We are all really looking forward to hosting for the first time the South East Essex Federation's AGM and are very excited at the prospect of meeting and listening to such an inspirational woman.

"Monday will be a memorable day for all of us."

It is expected Miss Widdecombe will stay to join members for lunch. Before leaving, she will sign copies of one of her books.

Published Friday, April 25, 2003

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