An arson investigation has been launched by police following a major fire at a recycling factory in Rhymney, with the fire now deemed to have been caused deliberately.

The fire broke out at Dragon Recycling Solutions on the Heads of the Valley Industrial Estate on Saturday, March 19.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) sent three aerial platforms, two water bowsers and eight appliances to a recycling factory on the estate at 1.30am on Saturday, March 19. It said it received 96 calls from the public.

According to reports on social media, residents reported several loud bangs and ‘popping’ as the blaze took hold.

The fire itself wasn’t extinguished until around 6am on Sunday.

In a statement, Gwent Police said: “Following a joint investigation by Gwent Police and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, we’ve launched an arson investigation after the cause of the fire was deemed to be deliberate.

“We’re appealing with anyone with information to speak to us, especially those with CCTV or dashcam footage from the area between 12am and 2.30am on Saturday, March 19.

“Anyone with details can call us on 101 or send us a direct message on social media, quoting log reference 2200090448.

“Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”