Fury after youths hurl fireworks at firefighters

PARENTS must have a “serious conversation” with their children before Bonfire Night this week, after three firefighters suffered severe hearing loss in a fireworks ambush.

- By Chris Riches

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service area manager Mark Thomas said fireworks are being used as weapons, as police review CCTV footage to hunt down the offenders.

The attack at Greenacres Park, Wirral, last month left three crew temporarily deaf.

A day later when firefighters responded to a 999 call at Walton Hall Park in Liverpool, they discovered wood alight in the park’s play area. And as they left, youths threw a log at a fire engine, causing damage.

Mr Thomas said: “The message to the individuals who are doing this is, stop it. It’s not acceptable. You are attacking the very people who protect you and your families.

“We will not tolerate these attacks on our frontline staff who help our communities, showing bravery and selflessness in their duties.