A major incident has finally been stood down over a month after firefighters in South Wales were called to the first report of a major wildfire in Blaenavon.

At the end of July, crews from across South Wales joined the fight against an 80 hectare blaze near the town, which was reignited in August when military support was drafted in as well as additional resources from across the UK. Just a week later, 200 hectares of the iconic Llangynidr Moors burned for days on end as firefighters worked with local farmers, contractors and a specialist helicopter pilot around the clock.

Between August 11 and September 1 this year, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service dealt with 961 grass fires, including 115 wildfires, of which 26 were category 3 - the most serious kind.

Speaking to partners, organisations and individuals who have supported SWFRS during the major incident, Deputy Chief Fire Officer Adam Openshaw said: “Over the last few weeks, the people in South Wales Fire and Rescue service have demonstrated incredible courage and professionalism to keep the public safe.”

Dealing with the wildfires across the region was part of a multi-agency approach and on behalf of SWFRS I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to you all.”

“The professionalism shown by all partner agencies has been welcome and impressive, and the willingness to support us as we dealt with this enormous challenge has been nothing short of exceptional.”

On August 13 alone, Joint Fire Control handled 1,006 calls. Comparatively, on Monday August 31, SWFRS answered just 88 calls.

Paying tribute to the dedication, commitment and compassion shown by colleagues during the major incident, Area Manager Mark Havell, said: “I want to offer my sincere thanks to every colleague across South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and to all those partners who stood alongside us throughout this major incident.”

The response has shown the very best of public service, people working with care, skill and resolve in difficult and demanding circumstances.”

“This has been a collective effort, and I am proud of the professionalism, compassion and dedication shown by teams across the Service. It is a privilege to say thank you to everyone who has played their part in protecting communities across South Wales.”

SWFRS has warned the public that, although the major incident has been stood down, the risk of wildfires has not entirely disappeared and the public is still asked to remain vigilant.

South Wales firefighters continue to monitor affected areas and will respond to any changes in conditions. Communities may continue to experience smoke from some wildfire sites for a period of time as deep-seated hotspots continue to smoulder. Anyone affected by smoke should follow public health advice and take appropriate precautions.

Both Gwent Police and South Wales Police continue their investigations into reports of arson and deliberate fire-setting, while partners and key stakeholders are already working to better understand how incidents like those witnessed this summer can be prevented.

The public is reminded to avoid activities that could increase wildfire risk and only call 999 to report a new emergency where immediate assistance is required. Also please avoid walking on areas of land that have been burnt as the terrain may not be on fire, but it may still be hot and cause injury. Coordinated efforts will now continue into the recovery phase.