New footage from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has highlighted the sheer devastation caused by the Blaenavon wildfire ten days after crews began fighting the blaze.

There is now less smoke in the area and the air has become clearer in recent days. Firefighters say they have made ‘good’ progress and the perimeter continues to hold and contain the incident.

“Our crews remain at the scene of the Blaenavon wildfire, working alongside our partners at Natural Resources Wales,” a spokesperson said on Wednesday.

“Significant progress has been made, with all fire breaks continuing to hold and the incident remaining contained. We are expected to remain on site over the coming days to monitor the area and continue with fire suppression and mitigation operations.”

“There is less smoke in the area, however, anyone affected by smoke is advised to continue following public health advice and keep windows and doors closed. We are urging the public to think twice before lighting a fire or barbecue to prevent further incidents. In the prolonged dry and hot weather, it only takes one small spark for a fire to start and quickly become out of control.”

Meanwhile, the Conservation Officer for the Gwent Ornithological Society has said the group is deeply concerned for local wildlife and has seen the real world impact this has on populations.

“Last week’s wildfire on Mynydd Garnclochdy near Blaenavon caused widespread habitat destruction while birds such as the Tree Pipit — Red Listed because of its steep population decline — were still raising chicks,” said Andrew Baker.

“Other wildlife, including snakes, lizards, and sheep, is also likely to have been burned alive.”

“The effects of moorland fires last for years, as high-quality habitats take a long time to recover, leading to further declines in species such as Red Grouse, Skylarks, and Meadow Pipits.”

Read the rest of the letter in next week’s Chronicle.