Carol Vorderman has called for an apology from Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon following a series of offensive social media posts. The broadcaster and former Countdown star described Kenyon, who is standing in the Makerfield by-election, as a 'cowardly man' and a misogynist.
In 2021, Kenyon responded to a post about Vorderman with a crude comment, and has since deleted his account. Further posts unearthed by the i Paper and the Independent include remarks about women's abilities and abortion. Kenyon reportedly claimed women have abortions for 'vanity purposes' and that women cannot 'ref, drive or give directions'.
Reform UK MP Danny Kruger defended Kenyon, saying the comments were 'inappropriate' but made before he entered politics. Kruger stated that Kenyon was 'an ordinary man from an ordinary place' and that the party would not withdraw him as a candidate.
Vorderman dismissed this defence, arguing that public online abuse should not be excused. 'He's a cowardly man,' she said, adding that Reform's stance effectively condones online abuse against women. Labour's Angela Rayner also condemned the remarks, calling them 'repulsive misogynistic abuse'.
A Reform spokesperson said Kenyon is entitled to his personal opinions on abortion and that he is a 'straight-talking' candidate for working people. Reform and Wigan Council have been contacted for further comment.
