Fireworks thrown at crews tackling bonfire blazes

Fire engine with firework exploding nearby

Fireworks were thrown at emergency services dealing with callouts on Bonfire Night across England.

A police officer was hurt and vehicles were damaged in Liverpool on one of the busiest nights of the year for 999 crews.

Eight people were detained by police, with three remaining in custody for questioning.

In Leeds, riot officers were called in to deal with disorder when fireworks were thrown into crowds.

Crews were also targeted when tackling blazes in Greater Manchester, where they attended 229 incidents overnight.

They said it was a slight rise compared to 218 incidents in the region in 2021.

In north-east England, Cleveland Fire Brigade said firefighters had fireworks and rocks thrown at them in “several violent incidents”.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “No-one should be attacked when trying to keep communities safe.”

In a statement, they added: “Although the vast majority of people celebrated Bonfire Night safely and responsibly, there were isolated incidents where crews encountered anti-social behaviour while trying to perform their duties.”

In Salford, a firework was put through the letterbox of a home, leading to crews extinguishing a small blaze in the hallway.

Wheelie bins, trees and playground equipment were also set alight.

GMFRS assistant chief fire officer Leon Parkes added: “Setting light to fires, throwing fireworks and making hoax calls can cost lives and keep our firefighters away from dealing with life-threatening incidents.”