Coroner rules Labour politician took his own life

Welsh Labour politician Hefin David took his own life, a coroner has ruled.

The 47-year-old was found unresponsive at a property in Nelson, Caerphilly county, on 12 August last year.

David had been Member of the Senedd (MS) for Caerphilly since 2016.

First Minister Eluned Morgan described David as a "truly remarkable human being".

In a record of inquest, senior coroner Caroline Saunders concluded David's death was a suicide, saying he "took his own life by hanging" at his home address.

His medical causes of death were recorded as asphyxia and hanging.

An inquest opening at Gwent Coroner's Court previously heard David was identified at the scene by his sister.

He would have turned 48 the next day.

Morgan described him as "an outstanding politician, warm and enthusiastic and a great communicator - especially on behalf of his constituents".

"He will be greatly missed," she added.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also paid tribute to David after his death, describing him as a "powerful voice for the people of Wales".

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