A scene took place last night at Birkdale Drive on the Savick estate in Preston that brings shame on the city

At about 9.46 pm, a small groups of youths of around 15 years of age started a fire using wooden pallets on Birkdale Drive. Preston firefighters who quickly arrived at the scene to extinguish the dangerous blaze came under a vicious attack from the youths who threw bricks and stones at the fire fighters and their engine. Police were called to scene to provide support

None of the firefighters report being injured, although the damage could have been a lot worse

From the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Servicetation website. A comment from Station Manager Shaun Walton:

“It seems unlikely that any of those who did this realises that they or someone they care for could be in need of our help at any time, whether to rescue them from a crashed car, a fire or any other emergency where we have to be there for them at a moment’s notice.”

“Intentionally tying up our resources and putting our people at risk, people whose job is to save lives and property, is outrageous and a disgrace and we will make every effort to identify the culprits and bring them to justice. Any information about this crime can be passed on anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

November 5 bonfire night is just around the corner and fireighters have met with abuse for doing their job far too often. This time of year dangerous fires are lit by careless individuals putting both the public and the firefighters at needless risk.