Man charged over house blaze

The house from where four people were rescued

A 25-year-old man has appeared before magistrates charged with starting a fire at a family home.

Craig Frederick Price is charged with arson with intent to endanger life following a fire at the Merthyr Tydfil home of a family of four on the town's Galon Uchaf estate.

A woman, her two children and grandchild were rescued from the blaze in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Mr Price, who was remanded in custody to appear before Merthyr Crown Court on 3 January, also faces charges of grievous bodily harm with intent, failing to provide a breath test and driving with no insurance and whilst disqualified.

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The four fire victims were taken to Prince Charles Hospital suffering from the effects of breathing in smoke.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the building and, using a thermal imaging camera, rescued the four people inside.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

A spokesman for South Wales Fire Service said the blaze started on the ground floor of the home.

An incident room has been set up at Merthyr Tydfil Police Station which can be contacted on 01685 724252.

Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.