Gang of youths attack firefighters dealing with Bonfire Night call

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service’s control room handled more than 450 calls overnight on Thursday, November 5.

While the majority of people celebrated safely, crews were subject to attacks by a small minority of ‘mindless individuals’.

A TWFRS crew from one of the service’s Newcastle stations was dealing with a bonfire in Throckley at around 5.40pm when a group of around 12 young people started throwing fireworks and other missiles at them.

There were no injuries or damage to the equipment.

Ahead of the weekend, a spokesman for the fire brigade said: “Last night was incredibly busy for the service with our control room handling more than 450 calls.

"Thank you to our firefighters, control room and community safety teams for all of their hard work not only last night but over the past few weeks.

"Firefighter safety as well as the safety of communities is often a challenge at this time of year and this year was no different.

"Thank you to those who enjoyed celebrations safely and responsibly, however our crews were subject to attacks by a small minority of mindless individuals.

"Fortunately these did not result in any injuries to our firefighters.

“We are reviewing our body worn camera and CCTV footage and where appropriate will share this with the police.

“We urge everyone to continue to do their bit, please don’t take risks with bonfires or fireworks which could put additional pressure on our firefighters and other emergency services and stay safe.”

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