THE FAMILY of the three members victims who died in the blaze at their Cwmbran home at the hands of Carl Mills said they feel "justice has been served."

They added: "Carl Mills starts a life sentence for three murders but for us, the family and friends of Kim, Kayleigh and Kimberley, our life sentence started on the 18th of September last year when three beautiful innocent people were torn from our lives.

"Our lives are never going to be the same again but we ask to be left in peace to come to terms with our losses.

"We would also like thank the Police, CPS, Fire Service and everyone who helped bring this case to court and convict Carl Mills."

The Gwent Police officer leading the investigation into the murder thanked the family of the Buckleys for their "patience and dignity".

Detective Superintendent Peter Jones, who led the probe said; “I would like to thank the family of Kim, Kayleigh and Kimberley for the patience and dignity they have shown throughout the investigation and subsequent court case at what has been a devastating time for them."

"Our thoughts remain with them and our specialist officers continue to offer support.

"I would also like to thank the wider community of Coed Eva who have supported both the family and the police investigation throughout, I have no doubt the impact of this tragedy will continue to be felt widely amongst all of those living in the area.

"The investigation team worked tirelessly to bring all of the incriminating evidence to court and today we have seen Carl Mills brought to justice for the horrific crimes he committed.”

Nicola Rees, Senior Crown Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service Wales, said:

“Carl Mills was responsible for starting a devastating fire that had distressing and tragic consequences.

“He did so knowing full well who was in the house at the time – and the evidence of his jealous and controlling nature makes it all too clear what his intentions were.

“Once the fire had taken hold, neighbours and friends of Kim, Kayleigh and Kimberley Buckley did whatever they could to try and assist at the scene.

“In contrast, Mills himself displayed a callous, almost casual disregard for the well-being of those trapped inside the house. His suspicious behaviour at the scene led Gwent Police to quickly apprehend him and their subsequent thorough investigation meant that we were able to build a very strong prosecution case.

“Despite his unwillingness to take responsibility for his actions, today Mills has been made to face up to what he did. But whilst we may welcome today’s verdict, we have to acknowledge that it does not and cannot bring back Kim, Kayleigh or Kimberley. Nor does it take away the hurt and suffering of those close to them. Our thoughts are with them.”

Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner Ian Johnston too welcomed the conviction of Carl Mills and offers his condolences to the family and friends of Kim, Kayleigh and Kimberley Buckley: "This was a dreadful crime and I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the family and friends of the three family members who were killed.

"I’d also like to acknowledge the professionalism and tenacity of the investigative team during the investigation and throughout the court process in bringing this incident to its rightful conclusion"