SEVEN coaches and two buses were destr-oyed in what fire investigators say is likely to be an arson attack at the Stagecoach depot in Pontypool.

The blaze, which is thought to have caused hundreds of thousands of pounds of damage, happened at around 4.30am on Saturday at the former Anslow depot.

Other vehicles at the Pontnewynydd site were also damaged in the fire, but no-one was injured.

The fire service sent engines from Cwmbran, New Inn and Abergavenny. Inspector James Baker, of Gwent Police, said early indications were that 12 buses were damaged and a number destroyed. They were treating the incident as suspicious.

Police and fire investigators returned to the site over the weekend to look into the possible causes of the fire.

Fire service arson investigation officer Mick Flanagan said: "My colleague who attended the scene to investigate told me he was fairly certain this was a deliberate ignition.

"It's sickening because though the cost must be hard to quantify at this stage, there must be many hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of damage.

"But, as well as the loss of property, Stagecoach now has to work very hard to ensure it won't also suffer a loss of business."

John Gould, managing director of Stagecoach Wales, said: "This was a reckless and mindless attack on an important public service.

"While a number of our vehicles were destroyed, thankfully no-one was injured.

"We would urge people in the local community to help the police in tracking down those responsible for the attack."

He said they were sourcing vehicles from elsewhere to ensure their services were not affected.

"Anyone who has booked a hire or excursion ticket with us need have no worries. We are open for bookings," Mr Gould added.

Police are urging people with information about the incident to call them on 01633 838111 or Crimestop-pers on 0800 555 111.