A tragic incident occurred on Clyne Common in Gower, where a beautiful pony lost its life in a devastating grass fire, leaving the local community deeply saddened. The fire took place in the early hours of Saturday, April 5, with four fire crews working tirelessly for nearly four hours to control the blaze that engulfed 70 hectares of grassland. This heartbreaking event unfolded amidst a series of grass fires occurring in the area and across Wales, many of which were deliberate acts of arson.
The Bishopston Community Council confirmed the loss of a wild pony, and potentially other wildlife, in the fire at Clyne Common. This is not the first time the area has been affected by such incidents, as warnings were previously issued following multiple fires at Copley Woods in recent weeks. The community is urged to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent these destructive fires from occurring.
Local resident, Jayne Dendle, expressed outrage at the senseless act, highlighting the tragic consequences for the wildlife. She emphasised the distress caused to animals like sheep, who were heard “crying in terror” during the fire. The impact also extended to nesting birds, whose habitats were destroyed in the blaze. Dendle called for greater awareness among the public, especially children, about the severe ramifications of starting fires in nature.
The community council echoed concerns about the escalating frequency of fires in the area, some of which posed a serious threat to residential areas. Collaborating with law enforcement and firefighting authorities, they are committed to addressing the issue and preventing further incidents. Residents are urged to provide any helpful information to assist in the investigation, underscoring the importance of community cooperation in safeguarding the environment and its inhabitants.
The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service reported the details of the incident, highlighting the extensive efforts made by fire crews to contain the grass fire. Utilising various firefighting equipment, including hose reel jets and wildfire blowers, the crews successfully extinguished the blaze, ultimately leaving the scene in the early hours of the morning. The tragic loss of the pony serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of wildfires on wildlife and the environment.
As the community mourns the loss of the pony and other wildlife in the fire, efforts are underway to gather information and enhance safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The emotional toll of such events reverberates through the community, prompting a collective call for responsible stewardship of nature and stricter enforcement against arsonists. The resilience and unity displayed in the face of this tragedy reflect a shared commitment to protecting the natural beauty of Gower and preserving its diverse ecosystem.