A Welsh town in Torfaen, steep hillside roots, historic Monmouthshire heritage.
The prime minister has chaired an emergency Cobra meeting as the UK faces a fifth heatwave, widespread drought and rising wildfires. He has asked retailers to follow voluntary guidance and suspend sales of disposable barbecues; some supermarkets have already stopped sales. Ministers are considering a temporary summer ban and steps to support firefighters, farmers and water supplies.
A 56-year-old man has died after violent disorder in Pontnewynydd, near Pontypool. Ten men have been arrested, and police believe members of rival Outlaw Motorcycle Clubs Vikings and Hells Angels were involved. Investigations are ongoing and a blue Ford Transit van is sought.
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.
Firefighters across Wales are contending with several wildfires, including Rhinogydd in Gwynedd and Blaenavon in Torfaen. Ground operations are underway with aerial support under discussion at the UK level. Officials warn the fires will burn for several days as smoky conditions affect 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.