Firefighters are met with abuse during night of chaos

FIREFIGHTERS were verbally and physically abused while attending incidents across Greater Manchester on Bonfire Night.

Some crews even had fireworks thrown at them while trying to protect the community on November 5.

The abuse, which took place in Openshaw, Cheetham Hill and Blackley, forced firefighters to withdraw from the incidents.

Fire bosses have called the behaviour ‘completely unacceptable’.

North West Fire Control said they received 347 calls between 4pm on Friday and 8am this morning (Saturday).

Altogether, GMFRS crews attended 218 incidents across the county, an increase from 202 last year. The incidents involved bonfires and fireworks at domestic properties.

Firefighters also tackled bin fires, unattended bonfires, and tree fires throughout the evening.

At one incident in Wythenshawe, a man was taken to hospital after suffering burns.

Chief Fire Officer Dave Russel said: “Bonfire Night is always a particularly busy evening for all of Greater Manchester’s emergency services. Working with Greater Manchester Police, North West Ambulance Service and North West Fire Control, our firefighters did a fantastic job keeping our communities safe.

“Unfortunately, there were a handful of incidents where crews were met with verbal or physical abuse as they arrived. Thankfully no-one was harmed, though I would like to remind the public that this behaviour is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“Though several planned displays across the city-region have been cancelled, we encourage residents to still attend organised displays where possible. If you are having bonfire or fireworks at home, please follow our advice and guidance throughout the weekend. Have fun but be safe and responsible.”