Missiles and fireworks were launched at firefighters on Bonfire Night in what has been described as a "disheartening day for the service".

Fire crews were subject to six incidents of anti-social behaviour and violence last night (November 5) across the region in one of the busiest evenings of the year. 

The County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said that, on four occasions last night, fire crews had lit fireworks directed at them, and two fire engines were left damaged after bricks and other missiles were launched at them.

Thankfully, nobody was injured, and footage has been captured on CCTV and body-worn cameras and will be handed over to Durham Constabulary. 

One of the damaged fire enginesOne of the damaged fire engines (Image: COUNTY DURHAM AND DARLINGTON FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE)

Chief Fire Officer Steve Helps said: “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – no one goes to work to be assaulted.

“It’s especially disgusting to attack the very people in our community whose job it is to keep people safe.

“One of our fire engines was so badly damaged that it needed to be taken off the run.

“In the event of a fire, a few minutes difference in arrival time can mean everything and incidents like this could have a real impact on us reaching the people who genuinely need us most.”

He added: “Bonfire Night might now be passed for another year, however, I ask parents and carers to continue to speak to young people in their households about the dangers and consequences of this behaviour.

“And to those engaging in these acts, ask yourself is it really worth it? Is it worth risking police action and do you feel proud that you’ve taken a fire engine off our streets? A fire engine that could be needed to respond to an emergency concerning your loved ones?”

"However, we do want to take a moment to thank the vast majority of people in our communities who were committed to having a safe, fun and respectful Bonfire Night.

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"And we want to thank the dedicated crews, control and wider staff for their hard work over this very busy period and our police colleagues for their support."

Anyone with information about deliberate fire setting, or dangerous use of fireworks, is encouraged to report it to the police through their website or by calling 101.

You can also report deliberate fire settings to Firestoppers on 0800 169 5558 or through their website.