Reform campaign letter on day of MS’s funeral was a “kick in the gut”

A Reform UK campaign letter delivered to Caerphilly residents on the day of Hefin David’s funeral has been likened to a “kick in the gut”.

The letter, with a printed signature of leader Nigel Farage, outlined the party’s criticisms of Labour in Wales, claiming the party had let people down on the NHS, immigration and jobs.

It also included a survey for Caerphilly residents asking them if they would be willing to support Reform UK by placing campaign posters in their windows or putting up a garden board. The freepost envelope for its return had a Caerphilly address.

A Welsh Labour source told Caerphilly Observer: “I was getting ready to attend Hefin’s funeral that day, so opening that letter was a like a kick in the gut.

“Of all the days they could have had this land on Caerphilly doorsteps, they chose the day that the community was mourning Hefin.

“Completely insensitive and only thinking of themselves.”

Richard John, a Conservative on Monmouthshire County Council, took to X (formally Twitter), to express his criticism of Reform.

He said: “I know there’s a Senedd by-election coming up but the timing seems incredibly insensitive as the community paid its respects.”

Dr David’s Caerphilly seat was officially declared vacant on Monday August 18 by Senedd Speaker Elin Jones.

A by-election has since been confirmed for Thursday October 23.

By-elections will become a thing of the past from May 2026 when the Senedd expands to 96 members and adopts a fully proportional electoral system.

Senedd members are expected to hold a tribute session to Dr David at the start of the next term in mid-September following the summer recess.

Reform UK was contacted for comment.