Welsh town in Torfaen with industrial heritage, hillside setting, and a UNESCO World Heritage-linked past.
The UK has seen a record-hot July and persistent drought across large parts of England and Wales. Hosepipe bans remain in force as cooling rain is forecast to be patchy and limited this weekend. Forecasters warn that heat and dry conditions will continue into next week, with a potential return of hotter spells in parts of the country.
Wildfires across Wales have intensified this week, prompting the deployment of a specialist firefighting helicopter to Rhinogydd in Gwynedd. Authorities say several fires remain active, with Blaenavon in Torfaen identified as a priority for ground operations. Officials warn the fires will burn for several days as smoke affects multiple communities.
The UK has faced a fourth heatwave with amber and yellow alerts across large swaths of England and parts of Wales. Temperatures peak midweek, with rainfall scarce and drought status declared in parts of Wales; authorities warn of health impacts and increasing wildfire risk. A cooler, wetter change is forecast to arrive later in the week.
Wildfires across the UK and Europe have intensified amid record heat. Fire services report growing incidents, with disposable barbecues and campfires increasingly blamed for ignitions. Officials warn residents to take extra care and governments consider stronger prevention measures for countryside recreation.
A record summer of heat, drought and wildfires has prompted an emergency Cobra meeting and voluntary retailer suspensions of disposable-barbecue sales. Green groups have written to Prime Minister Andy Burnham urging him to call the crisis 'climate change' and stop new North Sea drilling; Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice has questioned net zero and urged adaptation and celebration of warmer weather.
A murder investigation has been launched after violent disorder in Pontnewynydd near Pontypool, with a man in custody and multiple arrests as investigators uncover links to rival motorcycle clubs. A Ford Transit van has been traced in connection with the incident.