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The cause of a major fire at a building in Pontllanfraith is still unknown.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to the blaze at 5.52pm on Monday February 9, at the former Arrow Ford garage on Commercial Street – now home to several businesses including Greens Fishing Tackle and a barbers.

At the height of the emergency, nine fire engines were deployed, along with two aerial ladder platforms, a high-volume pumping unit and three water bowsers. A number of tactical officers were also mobilised to manage the incident, supported by Joint Fire Control staff based in Bridgend.

Crews and appliances from Aberbargoed, Caerphilly, Risca, Treharris, Abercynon, Roath, Tonypandy, Abertillery, Aberbargeod and Cardiff Central were among those who attended the scene.

The fire service said crews worked to manage significant risks posed by the blaze, both to themselves and to the public. No injuries were reported, and the building has since been demolished.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Martin Ward-White praised the multi-agency response.

“Crews worked hard throughout the evening and overnight to extinguish this fire and prevent further spread to neighbouring properties,” he said.

“This was a combined effort from a range of services who came together to deal with the immediate and wider implications of this incident.

“I would like to thank everyone who was involved in our response, and also the public for their patience and support.”

In a Facebook post the day after the fire, Greens Fishing Tackle said: “We are truly heartbroken to share that the fire has resulted in a significant amount of damage, and as a result, Greens Tackle will be unable to open for the time being.

​“We want to extend our deepest gratitude to all the emergency services who attended the scene. The fire and police teams were excellent, and we are so thankful for their professionalism and hard work during such a difficult night.”

The business added: “We have been deeply moved by the sheer number of phone calls and messages we’ve received offering love, support, and help.

“Please bear with us while we take this time to process everything and figure out our next steps. We fully intend to be back, and we will keep you updated as soon as we have more information to share.”