Torfaen wildfire emissions among world's highest in July

A county in Wales had one of the world's highest carbon emissions per square kilometre due to wildfires in July, according to a charity.

The fire above Blaenavon, Torfaen was described as "one of the largest and most challenging" in south Wales in recent years by the fire service.

Save the Children said it was concerned about possible health consequences after data, external published by the European Union's earth observation programme, Copernicus, showed Torfaen behind Malanje in Angola, Spain's Ávila and Annaba in Algeria in terms of wildfire emissions in July.

Torfaen council said it was unaware of the EU data but its own air quality monitoring showed "elevated particulate concentrations".

A blaze the size of about 300 football pitches broke out on Mynydd Garnclochdy, between Abersychan and Blaenavon, with people reporting smelling smoke about 30 (48km) miles away in Cardiff.

Combined with others across the region it contributed to a major incident being declared, which eventually required assistance from the military.

Blaenavon councillor Janet Jones said the smoke had been "particularly bad" on 13 August - about three weeks after the fire first ignited.

"There was great concern about air quality and the impact on elderly people and those suffering with respiratory issues such as emphysema and COPD."

Jones said she had spoken with GP practice nurses two weeks ago and was not aware of any increase in patients complaining about respiratory problems, but added this "could change in the months ahead".