A firefighter from Manchester who missed his birthday celebrations to help fight wildfires in South Wales received a surprise celebration from two local boys. Jacob, who was deployed to help tackle the severe blazes, could not return home for his birthday. Local mother Hannah Louise, along with her nine-year-old son Taylor Copley and 12-year-old nephew Harri Jones, decided to ensure he still had a special day.
Community Surprise
The family bought a birthday cake from a local shop and decorated his fire engine with ten colourful balloons. They sang "Happy Birthday" to him in Welsh. In a photograph from the celebration, Taylor and Harri stand inside the fire engine holding the cake alongside Jacob.
Hannah Louise shared the moment on social media, revealing that Jacob gave Taylor a hug and was visibly moved. She praised Jacob's dedication and urged people to share the story so his family in Manchester could see how much his work was appreciated. On Facebook, she wrote: "When your firefighter has had 2 miss his big birthday party back home in Manchester coz he's helping here.. so we filled the fire truck with balloons and bought him a cake.. He couched Taylor and couldn't believe what they did 4 him.. this as really hit me hard.. happy birthday dom our firefighter and hope next year you get to be with your family and loved ones".
Wildfire Emergency
The blaze in the Rhandirmwyn area, near Llandovery, has been burning for several days. Fire crews have been working through the night to contain it, tackle hotspots and prevent spread. Several properties have been evacuated, and roads remain closed. A rest centre is available at Llandovery Leisure Centre. Residents have been urged to stay away, follow diversions, and keep windows and doors closed if smoke affects their homes.
The situation is part of a wider wildfire emergency across Wales and England. On Friday evening, millions received an emergency alert warning of serious national wildfire risk. The public was told not to light fires or use barbecues, campfires, fireworks or other open flames, and to call 999 if spotting a fire. The government has temporarily banned the sale of disposable barbecues. Around 100 military personnel were initially deployed to support emergency services in South Wales, with a further 100 due to arrive.
Pressure on Fire Services
Pressure on fire services has been severe in South Wales, with several major incidents handled simultaneously. In Rhondda Cynon Taf, residents near Ferndale described being frightened as flames spread close to homes. The wider Llanwonno Mountain fire had already affected around 150 hectares earlier in August, prompting a major incident declaration. Fire crews continue to work alongside other emergency services, and the public has been warned not to fly drones near incidents as they can interfere with firefighting aircraft.
