Firefighters were pelted with stones and had their hose turned on them while on an emergency call.

The crews were ambushed by about 15 youths when they attended an arson attack at a barn near Market Harborough.

One crew member was hit on the shoulder with a stone but was not seriously hurt.

The two crews, from Market Harborough fire station, still managed to get the blaze under control despite the attack on Tuesday evening.

When a police officer turned up at Glebe Farm, off Northampton Road, the gang of youths dispersed.

A witness, who did not want to be identified, said: "There were about 15 young people and youths who were throwing sticks and stones.

"One stone hit one fire officer on the shoulder. He was saved from serious injury because of the thickness of his jacket.

"Hoses laid out to take water to the fire were tampered with and aimed at fire crews."

Members of the crews who were attacked have been banned from talking about the incident.

Chief fire officer David Webb said it was the service's policy not to comment on attacks on its crews.

But county Fire Brigades Union branch chairman Carl Doughton said: "This is a very concerning incident. Fortunately such attacks on the emergency services in Leicestershire are very rare.

"I just cannot understand those who would do this to people who are only trying to serve the community.

"We as a union shall be looking into the details of what happened."

Fire authority member, Councillor Michael Charlesworth, condemned the attack. He said: "Firefighters have a hard enough job as it is without being lured into something like this.

"I hope those who did this will think hard and not do anything like this again. They may need the fire service themselves one day."

Retained Firefighters Union official Roger Dunton called on the police to take firm action against the attackers.

Mr Dunton, who used to be a firefighter in Market Harborough, said: "It is absolutely appalling that things like this should happen.

"I have been involved in court cases around the country involving such incidents.

"I hope the police take the firmest action against these people who think it is all right to attack and injure firefighters."

Northamptonshire Police, who are investigating, believe the fire and the attack are connected and are appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information can call Northamptonshire Police on 03000 111 222 or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Tweet