THE grass fire that engulfed Twmbarlwm mountain over the weekend was a deliberate act, Gwent Police have confirmed.

Crews from South Wales Fire and Rescue battled for over 48 hours to bring the blaze under control on the mountain above Risca, with support from teams of helicopters who collected water from nearby lakes and reservoirs to be dropped from the air onto the flames.

Today, Gwent Police confirmed that no arrests have been made as they continue to investigate what they consider to be a deliberate act.

A police spokesman said: "At approximately 12:44pm on 14th July 2018 we received reports of large fire on a mountain near Blackvein Road between Cwmcarn and Risca.

"Officers attended the scene alongside colleagues from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

"The fire has been deemed deliberate and at this time enquiries are ongoing.

"Officers ask anyone with information to please call 101 quoting log number 320 14/07/2018 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800333111."

Other fires were reported over the weekend in Cwmcarn Forest Drive and on the Cock n Chick mountain near Abertillery.

Others were also dealt with in Fochryw, Caerphilly County Borough, and Wattsville in the Sirhowy valley.