Fire chief’s Bonfire Night warning

East Kilbride’s fire chief has warned any attacks on crews in the town on Bonfire Night won’t be tolerated.

Station manager David Reid told the News they are working closely with Police Scotland after a minority of individuals targeted firefighters in East Kilbride in recent years on one of the service’s busiest nights of the year.

Mr Reid’s safety warning comes as the town gears up for a night of firework displays and bonfires on Monday.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has urged residents to go to organised displays and heed important firework safety warnings to stop a night of fun turning into one they remember for all the wrong reasons.

And he has warned that unsafe bonfires could risk lives by diverting firefighters from more serious incidents.

Mr Reid said:“Bonfire Night is traditionally one of busiest nights of the year where our resources can be stretched. Unfortunately, our crews and fire appliances have been targeted by a minority of individuals who think it is acceptable to attack our personnel in the course of their duties.

“This will not be tolerated at any level and we will work closely with our colleagues in Police Scotland to ensure this does not take place.

“Police Scotland will operate and support our firefighters throughout bonfire night.”

The SFRS has also warned of the dangers fireworks pose to young children.