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A teenager has been arrested on suspicion of deliberately starting a huge mountain blaze in Blaenau Ffestiniog

The 16-year-old boy is being questioned by police in Caernarfon after being arrested on suspicion of arson, causing a public nuisance and assaulting a police officer.

Another man was arrested at the same time for obstructing police officers.

At its height, around 20 homes had to be evacuated on Monday night while the A470 also had to be closed to traffic while crews battled to bring the blaze under control.

Those evacuated from their homes on Church Street took refuge in De Niro’s Cafe in the town centre when owner Sue Roberts opened the doors after being forced to leave her own home.

(Image: Daily Post Wales)

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.

"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."

(Image: Mat Jones)

A fire service spokesman said firefighters went back to the Blaenau Ffestiniog this morning to and confirmed decided it is now largely out.

Gavin Roberts, senior professional and service standards manager for 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: Mat Jones)

"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."

Anyone with information is urged to contacted North Wales Police on 101 or use the live webchat on the North Wales Police website. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.