**Firefighters Wage Prolonged Battle Against Major Blaze at Stormy Down Recycling Centre**
Emergency services were called into action on Wednesday evening as a significant fire broke out at a recycling centre in Stormy Down, near Pyle, Bridgend. Thick plumes of smoke prompted warnings for nearby residents to keep windows and doors firmly shut as firefighters worked tirelessly for hours to bring the situation under control.
The alert was first raised shortly before half past six on Wednesday, 18 June, when calls were made reporting a massive blaze at Nolan Recycling. Responding efficiently, the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) deployed six appliances, accompanied by specialist support teams and officers, to tackle the escalating incident.
According to official reports from SWFRS, more than 40 firefighters converged on the scene, using specialist equipment to contain and eventually extinguish the flames. The effort proved to be challenging, with the fire continuing to burn strongly for several hours. By 10:42pm, the last of the flames were finally doused, marking the end of a demanding operation.
Throughout the evening, emergency responders issued advice to local residents to stay indoors and keep windows and doors sealed. This precaution was deemed necessary as smoke from the fire drifted over neighbouring communities, raising concerns about air quality and public health.
This is not the first time the fire service has had to respond to large-scale incidents at recycling centres in South Wales in recent months. Only weeks ago, a blaze broke out at the European Metal Recycling centre in Roath Dock, Butetown, Cardiff, resulting in similar measures being put in place for residents as smoke billowed across Cardiff Bay.
That particular incident, which occurred on 30 May, saw an even greater mobilisation of resources, with crews from 11 fire stations attending and around 200 tonnes of scrap material reportedly going up in flames. The scene was attended by nine fire engines, incident commanders, and a water bowser, with the operation continuing into the early hours.
These frequent occurrences of fires at recycling facilities raise ongoing questions regarding safety protocols within the sector, as well as fire prevention measures in place. Local authorities and fire services consistently urge recycling operators to undertake regular risk assessments and maintain best practices regarding fire safety.
In response to this most recent fire in Stormy Down, the fire service has commended the swift response and dedication of their crews. The incident commander praised the effectiveness of the joint operation and the commitment of local firefighters, who managed to prevent the fire from spreading beyond the recycling compound.
As investigations move forward, the cause of the fire at Nolan Recycling remains under scrutiny. Fire officials are expected to work closely with the management of the facility to determine how the blaze began and examine whether any additional measures are required to prevent future incidents.
Residents affected by smoke or disrupted by emergency traffic will likely welcome assurances that the fire service was able to bring the fire under control without reports of any significant injuries. However, the event will no doubt serve as a reminder of the risks associated with recycling operations and the vital role emergency services play in responding to industrial incidents.
Further updates are anticipated following the outcome of the official investigation. Local communities and businesses have been advised to remain vigilant and report any potential hazards or concerns promptly to minimise the risk of recurrence.