Jon Scriven, who represents Penyrheol in Caerphilly, subsequently deleted the Facebook post and apologised. A Plaid Cymru spokesman said he had been suspended from the party pending an investigation. The post showed Mr Scriven holding what appeared to be a firearm alongside the caption: “Ogmore-by-Sea tonight for a quick dip and make sure there are no Englishmen trying to cross the channel”. South Wales Police said they were aware of a post of a man brandishing what appeared to be a rifle in Ogmore-by-Sea. Inspector Michelle Conquer said: “An allegation of malicious communications has been brought to our attention and we are investigating the matter.” Mr Scriven admitted the position was poor. He wrote on Facebook: “I would like to apologize for any offense caused by my now deleted Facebook post. “It was ill-judged and I apologized to team captain Lindsey Whittle who accepted my apology.” Although the image was published on August 8, it began to be widely shared on Monday – attracting criticism from opposition politicians who branded it “xenophobic” towards the English. Welsh Tory leader Andrew R.T. Davis said he was “speechless”, adding: “This kind of xenophobic attitude is beneath us.” In another tweet, he claimed there were “known problems of violence and anti-social behavior at this location”. Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds MP said: “There is a clear implication of violence and xenophobia in this post. “Whether or not it was meant as a joke or not, it is completely inappropriate for an elected official to make such comments when he should know better. “With so much hate in politics in recent years we should be trying to build bridges and not fuel further division.” Caerphilly Senedd Labour’s Hefin David had posted a screenshot of the post earlier in the day saying: “Caerphilly Plaid sure doesn’t fit?” Hours later in another tweet, Mr David said: “To those who posted offensive comments in response to this. Our society faces enormous challenges. “We should seek to come together and address real concerns such as the cost of living crisis. “Wraping yourself in a flag and hating foreigners won’t help a single person in need.” Read more: MP who assaulted his wife must resign, Plaid Cymru leader says A Plaid Cymru spokesman said: “Councillor Scriven’s now deleted post was inappropriate and goes against the views and values of Plaid Cymru. “He was right to apologize for any offense caused. “All elected representatives of Plaid Cymru have a duty to uphold the highest standards. Councilor Scriven has been suspended pending an investigation.” Sky News has contacted Caerphilly County Council for comment.
