Military steps in to support Welsh firefighters as UK swelters in its fifth summer heatwave

Around 100 British Army personnel have deployed to South Wales to help local authorities tackle several wildfires burning across the region.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressed his gratitude to the military for stepping in to support communities after South Wales Fire and Rescue Service filed a formal MACA (Military Aid to the Civilian Authorities) request.

"Firstly, we have seen the military deploy 100 personnel, initially to the major incident in South Wales, and we're very grateful to our colleagues in the Ministry of Defence for that," Mr Burnham told reporters.

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"That support is critically needed.

"We have a system of mutual aid in play at the moment, where fire and rescue services are supporting each other, but with so many incidents, it is crucial that the military support is there if fire and rescue services can't do the same backup that they would normally be doing. So that is hugely appreciated."

Crews were responding to seven wildfires across South Wales earlier this week, with people evacuated from their homes in Porth and near Llandovery.

In a written statement, Elin Jones MS, Cabinet Minister for Finance in the Welsh Government said: "We are extremely grateful to the Army for providing this additional support. 

"The Welsh Government stands ready to provide funding for these military support operations should this be required."