An incident involving fire occurred in Phillipstown, New Tredegar during the afternoon of August 19.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service were alerted at around 3.21pm and response teams, vehicles and specialised resources responded to the location.

Firefighters remain present at the scene and are currently extinguishing remaining hot spots while observing the situation, which continues to develop.

A South Wales Fire and Rescue Service representative stated that the service received notification at approximately 15:21 regarding a fire in Phillipstown, New Tredegar. Response teams, vehicles and specialised resources continue to be stationed at the location. Personnel are monitoring conditions and tackling remaining hot spots. The situation remains ongoing.

Local inhabitants have reported significant damage to the hillside, with agricultural workers compelled to release their sheep as the flames advanced across the terrain.

A local resident told the South Wales Argus that the destruction to the hillside was deeply distressing. The farmer had to release the livestock and allow them to scatter as the fire advanced across the mountain.

Caerphilly County Borough Council confirmed that local authority services were ready to intervene if assistance was needed.

A Caerphilly County Borough Council representative stated that the authority was aware of the fire and council services were positioned to offer support if necessary. The fire was brought under control and fully extinguished by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service during the evening.

Dense smoke and flames were observed on the slope behind Graig y Bedw, with local people expressing worry about residential properties and farm animals in the vicinity. Observers reported that smoke was travelling swiftly across the hillside, with dark plumes visible from the town. One resident stated that substantial smoke was drifting across the mountain. The fire could be seen flaring up. It was truly heartbreaking for all the wildlife and it was very near to people’s houses. The firefighters have been dealing with so many such incidents over the past fortnight. Another individual expressed concern that the fire might be near where their horse is stabled, noting that their heart was in their mouth upon seeing it.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging individuals to steer clear of the affected areas, to keep windows and doors shut if experiencing smoke exposure, and to notify police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 regarding any suspicious activity or intentional fire-setting.

Members of the public should only contact 999 if a fresh emergency develops that requires an immediate response from the fire service.