Bomb couple face 'vendetta'

The device was found under the couple's minibus

Detectives investigating the discovery of a petrol bomb under a minibus said the family had been subjected to a string of previous threats and attacks.

Police in Merthyr Tydfil believe someone has a vendetta against the family as there have been at least eight other attacks in the last six months.

Security has been stepped up at the family home and police have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

Army bomb disposal experts blew up a home-made incendiary device found on Friday by Andrew White and his partner Karen Davies.

The controlled explosion allowed police to begin a criminal investigation and let more than 100 families return to their homes in Gladstone Terrace, Abercanaid.

South Wales Police said the device had been designed to burst into flames.

An Army robot blew up the device

On Monday police revealed that they were investigating the possibility of a vendetta against Mr White and his family.

"There have been at least eight other incidents since the beginning of the year," explained Detective Inspector Keith Bowman.

"Andrew White had his vehicle attacked on two occasions - his windscreen was damaged twice - a half-brick was thrown through a window on one occasion, and his parents have also suffered a similar type of fate.

"Most worrying of all, back in April a wheelie bin was put against his house and ignited."

When the device was discovered last week, Mr White called the police, and residents were moved out of their homes.

Many were taken to Rhydycar Leisure Centre, about a quarter of a mile away.

Land at the rear of the street was closed off and an Army bomb disposal unit called in.

The road between the A4045, above the Hoover factory at the Abercanaid roundabout and Snows garage towards the town centre, was also closed.