Yobs launch brick attack on fire crews

OLDHAM fire crews were swamped with calls and pelted with bricks and fireworks on Greater Manchester Fire Service’s busiest night of the year.

Fire-fighters from Hollins were attacked by yobs who began a bonfire on waste ground on Milne Street, Hollins, as families around the area celebrated bonfire night.

Five of the crew were targeted, but not inured, by around 20 youths at about 8pm on a night when three Oldham-based stations responded to scores of calls.

The service received around 650 calls during the 24 hours of November 5 throughout Greater Manchester, a sharp increase on last year’’s number of 438 calls. Paul Duggan, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service station manager, said: “We have CCTV’s on all our appliances and we work closely with Greater Manchester Police to try and catch these offenders who attack fire-fighters.

“Calls and incidents were up, but interestingly firework-related incidents were down from 15 to nine, which is quite a positive.”

Crews at Oldham fire station said they responded to more than 80 calls throughout the weekend.

On the eve of bonfire night, more than 3,700 illegal fireworks were seized from a car in Failsworth by trading standards officers. The haul included 36 powerful industrial fireworks, only meant to be used for official displays.

The fire service’s director of prevention and protection, Peter O’Reilly, said: “GMFRS staff and volunteers have spent considerable time going out to schools and communities, educating them on firework and bonfire safety.

“Although we still have a few days to go until the general sale of fireworks stops, I think, overall, the people of Greater Manchester should be praised for their sensible approach to the bonfire period.”

BONFIRE night went with a spectacular bang at Shaw Cricket Club’s grand fireworks display.
The annual event is one of the largest organised bonfires in Oldham with the explosive display seen for miles around.

Over 1,000 revellers headed to the Clough Road venue on Saturday night to enjoy the rip-roaring bonfire and to enjoy traditional food, along with the warmth of the large fire and colourful display.

Hollinwood residents were treated to a dazzling fireworks display after local organisations teamed together.

Hollinwood District Partnership, Contour Homes and Regenda Housing helped to fund the event, while Oldham Roughyeds, the Youth Offending and Inclusion Service and St Margaret’s Church all played their part to ensure it was a success. Organisers are looking for residents who would like to help with future events in Hollinwood. Call 07985-538 229.