Firefighters attacked with fireworks at Preston bonfire

Fireworks <i>(Image: PA)</i>
Fireworks (Image: PA)
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A fire crew was attacked with fireworks while responding to a call on Bonfire Night.

The incident took place in Greenthorn Crescent, Preston, on November 5, when firefighters were called to a bonfire that had spread to a nearby electricity cable and lamp post.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service has condemned the attack, in which fireworks were deliberately fired at the crew while they worked to make the scene safe.

Jon Charters, chief fire officer at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We condemn in the strongest possible terms the deliberate attack on our firefighters, who had fireworks fired at them while responding to an incident on Greenthorn Crescent in Preston last night.

"This was reckless, dangerous and utterly unacceptable.

"There is no excuse for attacking emergency service workers.

"Our firefighters are there to protect people and property, often in difficult and dangerous circumstances.

"They should never have to face deliberate attacks while carrying out their duties."

No injuries were reported, but the service stressed the seriousness of the incident and the potential for harm.

Mr Charters said: "This is not a joke or harmless behaviour: it puts lives at risk and threatens the safety of the very community we are there to protect."

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said it will work closely with police to identify those responsible and urged the public to help reinforce the message that such behaviour is unacceptable.

Police have confirmed that a 14-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of throwing fireworks.

A force spokesperson said: "Our officers attended and a 14-year-old boy was arrested at the scene on suspicion of throwing fireworks. He has since been released under investigation.

"What might seem like a prank can have serious consequences. Luckily, a firework didn’t hit anyone last night, but if it had, they could have suffered serious injury. Emergency services are there to protect people and shouldn’t have to contend with dodging fireworks whilst doing their job.

"We want to make it clear that anti-social behaviour is not acceptable. We’ll be carrying out extra patrols throughout the weekend and will take robust action against anyone who thinks it is."

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