Party edges Reform UK in stunning result as Labour vote collapses

PLAID CYMRU has pulled off a dramatic win in the Caerphilly by-election, narrowly beating Reform UK in one of the most closely watched contests in Wales this year.

The final result, announced early Friday morning, saw Plaid Cymru receive 15,961 votes, ahead of Reform UK on 12,113. Welsh Labour trailed in a distant third with 3,713, followed by the Conservatives on 690, the Wales Green Party on 516, the Liberal Democrats on 497, UKIP on 79, and Glad Wales Can Be Better on 117.

The result marks a major upset in what had long been considered a Labour stronghold, and is being viewed as a symbolic breakthrough for Plaid Cymru in South Wales.

Plaid leader Rhun ap Iorwerth was the only party leader to attend the count, describing the outcome as “a change of historic proportions.” His presence underlined Plaid’s growing confidence in challenging Labour dominance in the Valleys.

Among those watching the drama unfold was Plaid’s veteran candidate — a familiar figure in Welsh politics — who has stood unsuccessfully in more than a dozen previous elections. He was seen looking visibly tense as the final bundles were counted before the declaration confirmed his long-awaited victory.

In his acceptance speech, the Plaid’s Lindsay Whittle said: “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m not used to speaking first. Whilst we are perhaps euphoric in some parties tonight, I respectfully ask you to remember why we are here — under sad circumstances. We pay tribute to Hefin David, his family and friends, and I extend my sympathies. He will be a hard act to follow. I will walk the same path he did, and I can pay no finer tribute to an excellent man.

“I hope that this will be an exciting time for politics in Wales. I am heartened by young people — across the entire constituency I have had selfies, I have now had this. Listen, Cardiff — this is Caerphilly saying we want a better deal for here and every corner of Wales. The big parties need to take notice. We are at the dawn of a new beginning, and I look forward to playing my part.

“This is better than scoring the winning try against New Zealand in the final of the Rugby World Cup. I promise you, Caerphilly — I will serve you to the best of my ability.”

A Welsh Labour spokesperson said:
“Polls have now closed in Caerphilly. Welsh Labour would like to thank everyone who came out to support our campaign and vote for Richard Tunnicliffe today. Hefin David loved this constituency and its people. He’s been at the heart of our campaign throughout. This has been a tough campaign for the party for a variety of reasons, but we’re proud of what our staff and volunteers have achieved over the past six weeks and are committed to continuing to fight for Caerphilly and the Valleys.”

The by-election, triggered by the death of Hefin David earlier this year, was widely seen as a bellwether for next May’s Senedd election. Tonight’s result will send shockwaves through Welsh Labour ranks and provide a major morale boost to Plaid Cymru as it positions itself for government.