A major wildfire on Mynydd Garnclochdy, between Blaenavon and Abersychan in Torfaen, has been burning for six days, with firefighters continuing to battle flames across more than 200 hectares of mountainside - an area roughly equivalent to 300 football pitches.
Firefighters battle challenging terrain
According to South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the blaze, which began on Sunday (July 19) evening, remains a "significant wildfire" burning across a challenging landscape of fern, gorse and bracken. Firefighters have been working around the clock in smoky and humid conditions, using specialist wildfire tactics and equipment to contain the flames. Shifting wind conditions have continued to carry smoke across large parts of south Wales, with residents reporting the smell of burning vegetation from as far as 30 miles away.
Residents recall 1976
In Blaenavon, a veil of smoke hangs over the skyline. The distinctive smell of burning lingers in the air, particularly through the town centre. On Llanover Road, long-time resident Mrs Whent says a change in the wind has spared her home from the worst of the smoke, despite living close to the mountain. "In 1976 the fire came right down past the cattle grids," she recalled. "This time we've been fortunate. I haven't seen any ash here."
Further down the valley, along Hillrise, many windows remain firmly closed as residents try to keep the smoke outside. Anthony "Tony" Jones, who lives with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), said the smoke has made everyday life increasingly difficult. "The fire started on Sunday but we didn't really see it until Monday," he said. "We woke up Monday morning and it was just full of smoke. It travelled right down the valley and it's really affected my breathing because I suffer from COPD."
Community spirit shines
Despite the challenges, the community has rallied. Lydia and Cosmin Coada, owners of Osito's restaurant, have been providing food for firefighters. "I spent £100 just on fruit," Lydia said. "When we took it up they were absolutely delighted." Other local businesses, including The Horseshoe, Chipp & Fin and Dino's, have also contributed. "It's just snowballed," Lydia said. "It only takes one person to make a move and then everybody follows."
Former miner David Norman, 71, who also suffers with COPD, said the smoke has been "real hard work." He recalled the 1976 wildfire on the Blorenge. "I haven't seen anything like this since the seventies," he said. "Back then, the Army brought up the old Green Goddess fire engines and they were pumping water for about eight weeks." He praised the community response: "Everyone has pulled together. The local chip shops and kebab shops. A local builder went to McDonald's and bought 80 cheeseburgers for the firefighters."
