UPDATE: Political and public figures have reached out to Mark Drakeford after the news of the sudden death of his wife Clare.
Among those to offer their condolences wereThe Prince and Princess of Wales who said on social media, "Sending our thoughts and prayers to Mark Drakeford and his family." They signed off with their initials: "W & C."
Sending our thoughts and prayers to Mark Drakeford and his family. W & C
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) January 28, 2023
The wife of the First Minister Clare Drakeford has died a Welsh Government spokesman has confirmed
A Government statement read: "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.”
Mark and Clare Drakeford were married in 1977 and have three children together. The couple were living in Cardiff at the time of Mrs Drakeford's death.
During the coronavirus lockdown of 2020 Mr Drakeford said he had moved out of his home into a building in his garden to keep his family safe during the pandemic as his wife and mother were both classed as vulnerable.
Responding to the news that First Minister Mark Drakeford's wife has passed away, Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds said:"My thoughts are with the First Minister and his family at this very difficult time.
"On behalf of everyone in the Welsh Liberal Democrats, I extend our deepest condolences to Mark, his family and friends.”
Commenting on the sudden death of the wife of the First Minister, Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies MS said:"My heart goes out to Mark Drakeford and his family today after hearing this truly devastating news.
"On the occasions I met Clare, she was always a lovely lady and was very warm and kind. I’m shocked and deeply saddened to hear of her passing.
"My prayers are with her family and friends."