POPULAR Greenmeadow community farm in Cwmbran has been the subject of arson attacks, staff say.

The attacks started five weeks ago, with fires set after opening hours in outlying areas of the farm site. Staff say they have seen young firesetters running away.

But as the weeks have gone on the fires have become more frequent and more brazen, with fires being lit while the attraction is open to the public and in stables where animals can be kept.

Kate Holly, the farm’s commercial manager, said: “Last Sunday we had three fires, two of which were while the farm was open. Wewere dealing with one then we had a call from the fire service saying we had another out where the tractor ride goes.

“ We are worried if they set light to the main buildings obviously the animals could be in danger. It’s terrible really.

They just run when anyone comes out, although they did throw stones at the dog trainer recently.”

The leader of Torfaen council, Bob Wellington, was part of the local team who helped set up the farm.

The Greenmeadow ward councillor said: “Senseless is the only description for this type of attack. The fires started several weeks ago and are becoming more frequent and brazen. Hay bales have been set alight and perimeter fences have been damaged which is costing the farm money to replace. With the attacks escalating we are concerned for the welfare of the animals and worried the farm buildings will be next.

“We are appealing to the public in the hope someone knows who is responsible for this. An appeal over vandalism at the boating lake reached over 100,000 people on our Facebook page in a matter of days and provided valuable information which has led to arrests.”