South Wales Fire & Rescue Service were called to the scene at approximately 11:16am on Monday, after reports of multiple boats alight near the towpath at Govilon. Crews from Abergavenny and Brynmawr attended the incident.

On arrival, firefighters found three boats well alight. Witnesses reported thick black smoke visible from surrounding villages and flames reaching high above the canal.

Firefighters used hose-reel jets and portable pumps to bring the blaze under control, issuing a stop message shortly after 12:30pm. The scene was later handed over to canal authorities for further investigation.

No injuries have been reported.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation and officials have not yet confirmed whether it is believed to be accidental or deliberate.

The stretch of canal where the fire took place is popular with walkers, cyclists, and boat users. Local residents and members of the boating community have expressed shock at the damage.