An old primary school in south Wales was brought to the ground in a massive fire which started deliberately, police have confirmed. The old Ysgol Y Graig site in Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil was wrecked by a fire which started on Thursday afternoon, August 6.
Fire crews battle blaze
Large flames were pictured rising from the school building and thick plumes of grey smoke could be seen for miles around. Fire crews from more than 10 areas rushed to the scene to try to bring the fire under control.
Drone images taken after the fire was put show the old school completely gutted, with large parts of it having collapsed entirely.
Investigation identifies youths
It's now understood that footage has revealed that the fire was started deliberately, believed to be by a "group of youths". A spokesperson for South Wales Police said an investigation has shown that the school was set alight deliberately, and efforts are ongoing to arrest those responsible.
Local councillor Lisa Mytton said that after a review of social media footage, police have identified youths at the scene. Residents had previously been asked to keep all doors and windows closed due to the level of smoke in the area.
Police statement and aftermath
A police statement reads: “South Wales Police was called at 12.30pm on Thursday August 6 to assist with a fire at the old Ysgol Y Graig Primary School building in Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil. Investigations have shown that the fire was set alight deliberately and arrest enquiries are on-going”.
The building has now been handed back over to the site owner, the fire service said.
