A GRASS fire in the Swansea Valley spread 60 hectares yesterday with up to 45 firefighters called to tackle the blaze.

Starting above the cemetery in Godre’r Graig at around 8am, an initial four crews used beaters and hose reel jets to tackle the fire.

Due to the dense undergrowth and strong 10 knot winds, the fire quickly developed and a further four crews were dispatched to the scene.

In total 40 firefighters from Pontardawe, Morriston, Abercrave, Ammanford, Neath and Amman Valley attended, along with five tactical officers.

Priority was made to protecting homes and businesses nearest to the fire, including a livestock farm.

Community Safety and Education Officers attended Godre’r Graig School as children were leaving for the day to speak with parents about the fire.

Firefighters eventually left the scene at around 1am – 17 hours after the initial call. There were no reports of casualties or property damage.

Group Manager Alan Sherman who was at the scene said: “I would just like to thank residents of Godre’r Graig and in particular Councillor Rosalind Davies for their massive community effort.

“They provided local knowledge of the area and of the fire’s development, as well as providing welfare arrangements for firefighters during this long and difficult incident.”

Initial indications are that the fire was started deliberately. If you have seen anything suspicious in the area of Godre’r Graig cemetery at 8am yesterday morning, then please contact South Wales Police on 101.