Homes evacuated over fire fears

The fire service feared gas cylinder explosions

Around 100 people spent the night away from their homes in the south Wales valleys following a fire at a garage.

South Wales Fire Service said they were concerned that gas cylinders at Capel's Garage, Pengam, Rhymney Valley, could explode.

Many of those moved from their homes made their own arrangements with others housed in B&Bs arranged by Caerphilly Council's emergency planning officer.

The fire service said the blaze was out by 0730 BST on Wednesday.

Crews were called to the fire at 1914 BST on Tuesday.

Homes within a 200m (656ft) radius were evacuated and about 100 residents moved away.

In flames

Wayne Williams, who lives nearby, said he first saw thick black smoke at around 1930 BST while he was doing some garden work with his father.

"It was at that point we knew something close was on fire as the flames were very prominent and (the fumes) could easily be inhaled.

"We made our way to the bottom of the street where we saw the rear of the garage in flames," said Mr Williams.

He said it was not until two hours later that he found out houses were being evacuated, because of the dangers of the gas cylinders.

His wife Rachel was not allowed to return home and they had to find alternative accommodation for the night at her mother's home.

Initially, firefighters had to withdraw from the blaze over fears gas cylinders inside the garage could explode.

Gwent Police said that by late morning on Wednesday, some of the houses evacuated were safe for residents to return.

By 1130 BST, only homes within 100m (328ft) of the fire were still considered unsafe.