Firefighter viciously attacked whilst extinguishing bonfire

Date published: 02 November 2005

A firefighter from Rochdale Fire Station was viciously attacked whilst performing his duties. The incident occurred at approximately 6.45 pm at the rear of Crescent Road, Sudden.

Crews from Rochdale Fire Station were originally called out to a bonfire in the area at 5.45pm, where they found a group of youths gathered around a fire on the open land. The youths were aggressive and abusive to the fire crews. In order to prevent any further trouble from the youths; the officer-in-charge of the incident agreed to allow the fire to burn itself out on the condition that the youths agreed not to place any further fuel on to it.

Less than one hour later, crews from Rochdale Fire Station were called out to the same bonfire to find that not only had it been considerably built up but also that some of the items added to it were of a hazardous nature (including a number of aerosol spray cans), therefore placing the youths in considerable danger. The officer-in-charge took the only sensible option and decided to extinguish the fire.

Whilst one of the firefighters was extinguishing the fire, he was hit in the face by a brick that was thrown by one of the youths. Luckily, this firefighter was wearing his helmet with the visor in the down position in order to protect his eyes, otherwise his injuries could have been much worse. The firefighter sustained a badly cut lip and bruising and swelling to his lip and jaw. He was taken to Rochdale Infirmary where he was prescribed painkilling medication and his wound was treated.

Station Commander, Wayne Shields, said: "To the firefighters credit, he decided to continue with his duties and returned to work; otherwise a Rochdale firefighting appliance may have had to be taken off operational duties, therefore placing the local community at risk. This firefighter has spent 24 years at Rochdale Fire Station where he has shown great dedication in protecting the community of Rochdale from fires and many other dangers. This incident has severely shaken his confidence and belief in the local community.

"If you are a parent living in this area I would appeal to you to please ensure that you know the whereabouts of your children at all times. Additionally, I would be grateful if you would please impress upon your children the importance of your local firefighters and the many ways in which they help your community.

"Most importantly, if you can help in the investigation of this incident in any way I would be very grateful. This person must be prevented from continuing with this violent behaviour before someone is badly injured or killed."

If you can help in any way please contact:

Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111,

Rochdale Police on 0161 872 5050 or

Rochdale Fire Station on 01706 900103.

If you prefer, you can remain totally anonymous and your confidence will be totally respected.