Fireworks and stones thrown at fire safety officers

YOBS threw fireworks and stones at fire safety officers while they were working to prevent anti-social behaviour.

Community safety officers were working on the Royal Estate in Edlington, at around 5.30pm on Monday, when a gang threw stones and fireworks at their van.

A fire service spokesman said no-one was injured in the incident and the van was only slightly damaged.

Martin Blunden, assistant chief fire officer at South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, said: “We are absolutely appalled that our staff appear to have been targeted in this way. Attacks like this place the safety of our staff, and the people they are trying to protect, at risk.

“Thankfully, this type of incident is extremely rare in South Yorkshire and it is only a tiny minority of people who would ever consider acting in such an irresponsible and dangerous way.

“However, even one attack on a member of fire service staff is unacceptable and we will work alongside the police to fully investigate any attacks and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”

Anyone with any information should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.