Wife of Welsh First Minister Dies Suddenly

The wife of Wales’ First Minister Mark Drakeford has died suddenly, the Welsh Government has confirmed.

In a statement published on Saturday, a government spokesman said, “It is with deep sadness that we confirm the sudden passing of Clare Drakeford, wife of the first minister.

“The thoughts of everyone in the Welsh Government are with the family at this time and we ask that their privacy is respected,” the statement reads.

According to Wales Online, the couple have been married for over 45 years and have three children.

Downing Street said that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had passed on his deepest condolences to the Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford privately.

Writing on Twitter, Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she is sending “love and strength.”

“My thoughts are with Mark and his family at this terribly sad time,” Sturgeon wrote.

“On the occasions I met Clare it was obvious how strong the bond between her and Mark was, and I can only imagine the depth of grief he is feeling.

“Sending him love and strength,” she added.

PA Media contributed to this report.