A fire broke out at Awel Y Mor Primary School in Port Talbot on Wednesday morning, forcing the evacuation of toddlers from a holiday club on the premises.
Fire at Awel Y Mor Primary School
Huge flames and thick smoke were seen coming from windows of the school, prompting quick-thinking staff at the Lots of Tots holiday club to evacuate the children. The club was being held in a separate part of the school.
A post from the group thanked staff for their calm and professional evacuation of the children. The fire means the group has been cancelled for the rest of the week.
Fire service response
Firefighters from Port Talbot, Neath Swansea Central, Morriston and Swansea West Fire Stations worked to bring the blaze under control, leaving the scene at around 12.43pm. A spokeswoman for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said crews responded to a fire within sandwich panels of the school, using four breathing apparatus sets, two hose reel jets, a turntable ladder and a water bowser.
Closure and thanks
A post from Lots of Tots read: "Following the fire in the main school building, we'll remain closed for the rest of this week. We'll assess the damage and plan for the safe return of children and staff to the undamaged playgroup. A reopening date or decision can't be made until a full assessment is complete." The post also extended a massive thank you to staff for their calm and professional evacuation and ensuring everyone's safety.
