A FIRE which destroyed a Hollybush home, is now being treated as arson.

At 9.25 on Friday morning, Gwent Police were called with a report of fire at Perthy Close, Hollybush in Cwmbran. Three fire engines arrived at the scene after neighbours had watched the flames rip through the roof of the two storey house.

Husband and wife, Gordon and Delvina Yates, who live in the house got out safely and were taken to the Royal Gwent hospital. Next door neighbour, Corey Haynes, had ran into the burning house to get Mrs Yates out.

Speaking to The Argus on Friday, Mr Haynes said: "It's crazy, I can't believe it."

After being woken by a passer-by who raised the alarm, Mr Haynes put on his shoes and ran out to his back garden. He said: "I hopped over the fence and Gordon was outside but Delvina was still inside.

"I went in the house and she was halfway up the stairs, just standing there. So I grabbed her and took her out."

But Mrs Yates was shouting after her dogs, which were still inside. Mr Haynes turned around and ran back into the house with a sock covering his mouth.

The 23-year-old said: "The smoke was so thick. I could hear the dogs barking but I couldn't see anything. I was panicking.

"I was halfway up the stairs and heard someone shout 'gas!' I turned around and sprinted out as the gas exploded behind me."

Martyn Ralph, who also lives in the cul-de-sac, said: "I heard a bang and glass smashing and ran outside and the house was in flames."

Another neighbour, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "I came out and saw the porch on fire. It was horrific, i just burst into tears."

On Friday, investigations were still ongoing to determine the cause of the fire, but today a spokesman from South Wales Fire and Rescue, said: "It was deemed as deliberate by persons unknown."

Gwent Police are now treating the fire as arson and are appealing for information. No arrests have been made.

Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious should call 101 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.