RICHARD TUNNICLIFFE has been selected as Welsh Labour’s candidate for the Caerphilly by-election.
Members of Caerphilly CLP met on Saturday morning (September 6) to hear from shortlisted candidates before voting on their final selection.
Richard is a financial analyst and also runs a children’s publishing company with his wife. The couple live in Caerphilly, where they’ve raised their three sons. All three have additional learning needs. Richard joined the Labour party at the age of 15 in 1988, having grown up in a Labour-supporting family.
Richard said: “In Hefin, we have lost someone in the prime of their life, someone who was a much valued and a widely respected member of our community, even before he was our MS. And in that role, he served us well, fighting for our issues and concerns and his shoes will be extremely hard to fill.
“He was a man who always looked for the best in others and for what they could do, not what they couldn’t; and he encouraged, supported and empowered people.
“He had a belief in me that I initially didn’t have; and it is with a heavy heart that I now want to repay that faith and take his legacy forward.”
First Minister Eluned Morgan MS said: “This is a by-election none of us expected to face. Hefin was a strong, well-respected voice, not just in the Senedd, but across this constituency.
“He was a proud Welshman deeply rooted in the Valleys and proud to represent the area where he was born and raised. Hefin never hesitated to stand up for what was right for his constituents.
“I know this is a difficult time for everyone who knew and loved Hefin. But I also know we will get together to support Richard, fight against the threat of Reform and Plaid, and to win this seat in Hefin’s memory and continue his legacy.”
The by-election will be held on October 23.
