A PONTYPOOL mum whose home was ravaged by fire on Tuesday night has spoken of her appreciation after the community rallied around her and her family.

Fortunately neither Jane Malson nor her son, Emilio, were home at Machine Meadow, between Pontnewynydd and Abersychan, when the fire broke out shortly after 7.45pm.

But several of her animals were, including 12-week-old kitten Gizmo who was only returned around lunchtime today after going missing throughout the night.

Her dog, Ruby, had to be rescued by Ms Malson’s brother, Garry, after the property was secured by fire fighters, and another cat, Kit, was also returned safe. Sadly, Gizmo’s mother, Gizzy, was found dead.

Ms Malson’s home, which is owned by Bron Afon Housing Association, was largely gutted with large parts of the roof at the back of the property severely ravaged by the flames.

Another house was also badly damaged, while several others suffered smoke damage, but no-one was hurt.

The cause of the fire is being investigated by the police and fire service.

Ms Malson’s brother-in-law was the first to see what he described as a “fireball” pop through the roof of her home, and spread across three other terraced houses on the street.

Rocky Dixon said: “It was just unbelievable. It was likely someone was pouring petrol on it constantly.”

Bron Afon tenant Ms Malson lost valuables including jewellery, computers and televisions.

The houses of Hana Jones and Carol Williams, which are near Ms Malson’s home, were also affected.

Ms Malson’s brother, Nicky, lives at the bottom of the street. He said it was a “miracle” no-one was hurt.

Jane’s sister-in-law, Sue Malson, is the community co-ordinator for Trevethin charity shop Trac 2. Volunteers there are currently sorting out supplies for the families affected.

Jane Malson said: “I want to say a big thank you to them, and the whole community for their support.”

The family also thanked the emergency services.

A South Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said crews were called to the house fire at 7.54pm on Tuesday.

On arrival, two terraced properties were well alight and already venting through the roof with the potential to spread to further properties.

Six fire engines attended the incident which included crews from New Inn, Abersychan, Blaenavon, Cwmbran, Usk and Abercarn. Water bowsers from Cwmbran and Caerphilly were also used.

Ten breathing apparatus, four water jets, thermal imaging cameras and ladders were used.

The fire was extinguished by around 9pm.

A Gwent police spokeswoman said five homes had been evacuated in the street as a precaution.

She confirmed no-one was hurt but said one woman had been taken to Abergavenny’s Nevill Hall Hospital with smoke inhalation and has since been discharged.