Residents gather for annual bonfire on a housing estate in Wales

Hundreds of residents gathered at the Penrhys housing estate in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales, for a community-run bonfire on Thursday.

The unofficial event featured a fire estimated to be 80ft wide and 20ft tall. Local people described the gathering as a tradition that has continued for almost 30 years. Despite previous safety warnings, attendees reported that the fire remained under control because 10 people monitored a perimeter around the flames. The event also raised more than £1,000 for local organisations.

Cai Grocott, a local resident who has attended the bonfire for a decade, said the event brings the community together in an area that has faced financial struggles and redevelopment. He noted that the community has lost many facilities due to a lack of funding, leaving only one shop and a church. Trivallis Housing Association, the land owner, stated it does not support or endorse unofficial bonfires and urged the public to attend licensed displays instead.

The South Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that no incidents were reported during the event, though the agency continues to advise people to use professional fireworks displays and obtain landowner permission for private fires.