FIRE service officers are warning of the dangers of discarded gas cylinders after several were found in a Newport clean up operation.

Crews from Duffryn station collected cylinders at the LG Access Site yesterday, after several were reported by the public.

The South Wales Fire and Rescue Service collected 65 cylinders, which are described as “a potential threat” to members of the public if set alight and “extremely dangerous” when fire crews are dealing with incidents.

Station commander for Duffryn station, Sean Jenkins, said: “These are dangerous items, which could have a massive impact if involved with a fire incident.

"As a station, we are also hosting an amnesty so that members of the public can bring their used or unwanted gas cylinders to us and we will dispose of them accordingly.”

In the last year South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has attended 48 incidents involving discarded cylinders — either left in derelict buildings or those fly tipped.

Gary Evans, programme manager at fly tipping action Wales, added: “Fly tipping is a serious environmental crime that poses a threat to people and wildlife, damages our environment, and spoils our enjoyment of towns and countryside.

“We urge members of the public to take pride in their community and if they see a fly-tipping incident make sure they report it immediately to their local authority.”

For more information about cylinder amnesties visit southwales-fire.gov.uk.