Bricks thrown at firefighters in 'reckless' attack

Firefighters had rocks thrown at them in a "dangerous and unprovoked attack" while responding to a rubbish fire.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said a crew was called to Blakelaw, in Newcastle, at about 21:40 BST on Wednesday when they had several items thrown at them.

The force said no-one was injured, but a fire engine had to be taken off the road temporarily due to "significant damage".

Chief fire officer Stewart Nicholson said the impact could not be underestimated, as firefighters were left without one of their vehicles.

He said: "This can result in delays to attending other incidents where people may be in urgent need of our help.

"Our firefighters are ordinary people doing an extraordinary job. They are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters who should never face violence simply for carrying out their duties."

He added anyone with information should come forward and asked the public to help prevent similar anti-social behaviour by ensuring their wheelie bins were properly secured.

"Attacks on emergency service workers are completely unacceptable and those responsible must be held accountable," Nicholson said.

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