Yobs attack fire crews with concrete slab

Date published: 29 April 2009

FIREFIGHTERS came under attack on Sunday night after hoax callers ambushed two crews.

Officers from Chadderton Fire Station were called to the Ancora Pub, Broadway, at 11.10pm.

Reports of a fire in the kitchen were false but the crews came under attack from youths. Rocks and stones were launched and one youth threw a concrete slab.

Watch manager Paul Brunt said: “The hoax call was made from a phone box and was quite specific.

“Two appliances turned out and came under attack as we were heading back to the station.

“One of the youths picked up a parasol weight and launched it at the first vehicle. He then ran out into the road, picked up the weight again and threw it again.

“The other four youths were shouting abuse.”

None of the nine crew members was injured.

Officers used CCTV cameras to zoom in on the offenders’ faces and the footage has been passed to Greater Manchester Police.

Watch Commander Brunt said: “This was malicious and premeditated. Although only the ladders were hit, the intent to cause damage was still there and we were under attack.

“All the youths were aged 17 to 18, about 5ft 10in and wearing black clothes with hoods up.

“It highlights the danger we face from areas you don’t expect.

“Hopefully, CCTV cameras on the appliance will be fruitful in getting a conviction.”