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A teenager has been arrested in connection with a major fire which swept through Blaenau Ffestiniog.

More than 20 homes had to be evacuated and the A470 was closed as a result of the blaze which started in the Llechwedd Slate quarry area on Monday night and was still burning on Tuesday morning.

A spokesperson for the fire services said it was mostly out on Tuesday morning but fire crews remained at the scene for some time.

On Wednesday, a 16-year-old local male was arrested on suspicion of an aggravated offence of arson.

(Image: Daily Post Wales)

He was also accused of causing a public nuisance and assaulting a police officer. He is currently being questioned at Caernarfon police station.

Another man was also arrested at the time of the teenager's arrest for obstructing police officers.

Inspector Matt Geddes, of North Wales Police, said: "The fire is being investigated as a deliberate and criminal act which put a number of family homes and businesses at risk, and caused the evacuation of tens of properties.

(Image: Daily Post Wales)

"We are appealing for witnesses to come forward and notify the police of any information they have in respect of this incident, in order that those responsible can be brought to justice, and most importantly any further incidents that pose such a risk to the community can be prevented."

Gavin Roberts, senior professional and service standards manager at North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Deliberate grass fires put lives in danger – this incident tied up valuable resources for a considerable length of time, putting not only our firefighters but also local residents at risk.”

"It will take the fire and rescue service longer to respond to life risk emergencies like house fires, or road traffic collisions if they are already tied up tackling a deliberately set grass fire.

(Image: Daily Post Wales)

"Deliberate grass fires can severely damage our countryside and our environment, destroy wildlife and livestock and cost the Welsh economy millions of pounds each year.

"We are working closely with our Police colleagues to catch those who deliberately set fires and will support prosecutions."

Contact the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 if you have information.