A woman has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a devastating fire destroyed homes in south Wales and led to dozens of evacuations.

Emergency services responded to reports of a fire on Hazelwood Road, Pantside at around 4.05pm on Wednesday 12 August.

Five homes have been destroyed in the blaze which broke out in an adjacent field before spreading to bungalows on Hazelwood Road. Thirty-two properties were evacuated and no injuries were reported.

Gwent Police say officers are conducting a joint investigation into the fire alongside fire investigation officers from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

A 29-year-old woman from Newbridge has been arrested on suspicion of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered and remains in police custody at this time.

Chief Superintendent John Davies said: "We understand that there are a lot of ongoing wildfires across the country, however I would like to make it clear that we do not consider this fire to be linked to any other wildfires.

"This fire has caused significant damage to a number of residential properties which will have a devastating impact on those in the local community."

Residents living on nearby streets said they were stunned by the escalating blaze as they and their neighbours used hosepipes and buckets of water to try to stop the fire from spreading and destroying their homes.

Newbridge RFC said they were “absolutely heartbroken to have seen the horrendous fire” and offered their support to local residents “affected by such a frightening and horrendous event, and we hope that everyone is safe and well”.

They shared on social media: “Our Clubhouse will be open at 8am in the morning and we can offer hot and cold drinks along with changing and shower facilities for anyone who needs it, no need to contact us or make a booking, just drop in.

“This is our community and we are only happy to be able to offer some sort of help where we possibly can”.

Gwent Police added enquiries are ongoing into the fire, and anyone who has any information that may be useful to the investigation please contact them, message on social media or call 101, quoting 2600263302.