People living in Pantside have been left heartbroken after a significant blaze ripped through a number of houses, with locals coming together to help those impacted.

The blaze started just before 4pm on Tuesday, August 12, and led to a major emergency operation mounted by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, which sent 12 fire engines, a pair of water tankers and a height vehicle to tackle the flames.

There were no casualties reported, though the destruction to the properties was extensive, with several considered irreparable.

Approximately 20 occupants were forced to leave their homes and were provided with emergency assistance through the night as Caerphilly County Borough Council arranged places to stay.

One of the earliest to offer help was Paul Rogers, secretary of Newbridge RFC, who allowed those displaced by the fire to use the rugby club’s facilities.

He explained the venue had changing rooms and showers available. He noted the building had a television mounted on the wall where people could come in to relax and watch programmes. He said the club was pleased to provide whatever support it could.

Residents, businesses and local organisations in the vicinity have already begun collecting contributions.

Mr Rogers said various individuals had got in touch with the club to donate clothing, bedding, food and supplies for animals.

He stated the local community was uniting strongly to assist in any way possible. He emphasised the club existed to serve the community and that such situations demonstrated exactly why it had been established.

Councillor Gary Johnson said those who lost their homes had seen treasured possessions destroyed in the fire.

He pointed out that along with losing all their worldly goods, they had also lost keepsakes, photographs and similar items.

Elected members described Newbridge as a tightly-bonded neighbourhood and commended how inhabitants supported one another during difficult periods.

They also voiced approval for the emergency services response, noting that local people had spoken positively about both the fire brigade and police officers.

Councillor Johnson said residents had informed him the responders had been excellent. He stressed this reflected the opinion of those living in the area, with no alternative views expressed.