FIVE teenagers have been arrested after ‘disgraceful’ attacks on police and paramedics on Bonfire night.

An investigation was launched after members of the emergency services were lured into certain areas of Blackburn with hoax calls before attaching them with fireworks and missiles.

Videos of the incident were captured and uploaded to social media at the time and showed gangs of youths launching fireworks towards ambulances and staff members.

The five youths – four boys and a girl all aged between 14 and 16 years old - have been arrested on suspicion of affray and are currently in custody.

They have been arrested in relation to one of the incidents on Lambeth Street.

A police spokesman said: “In areas of Blackburn and Burnley emergency services crews from the fire service, ambulance and police received a number of hoax calls only to be attacked with fireworks and other missiles.

“A number of police vehicles were also damaged. It is only good fortune that no-one was injured during the incidents.

“Enquiries will continue to identify anyone else suspected of being involved and we will keep you updated.”

Chief Supt Mark Winstanley, of East Police, said: “The events of bonfire night were utterly disgraceful and showed a complete disregard for the police and our emergency service colleagues.

“Not only did the actions of this small minority of people put the safety of people at risk but they diverted resources from attended genuine emergency calls.

“Police and other blue light services go out of their way every day to keep communities safe and to be treated in this way was simply unacceptable.

“We promised that we would be investigating in a bid to identify those individuals responsible and today’s arrests form part of those enquiries, which are very much ongoing.

“We are aware that the majority of the community were appalled by the events and we are grateful for their support following the incidents on that night

“I would continue to appeal to anyone who can help to contact us, in particular if they have any mobile phone footage, CCTV or ring doorbell footage which could assist.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log 1053 of November 5th. Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers.org.