A FIREFIGHTER has been injured after being hit by a stone as he tackled a fire.

Fire crews say they have been physically attacked in the Easington Lane area after being called to deal with a number of rubbish fires in recent days.

The abuse culminated in an incident on Thursday night when a firefighter was hit in the arm by a stone and his fire appliance was also hit.

Although his injuries are not serious, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service is warning people not to attack firefighters whilst they carry out their life saving duties.

Fire officers and police are issuing a warning that anyone who is caught attacking firefighters will be prosecuted under the Emergency Services Act.

District Manager for Sunderland, Ian Cuskin, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Thankfully the firefighter was not seriously injured nor the fire appliance seriously damaged. However it could have been a different story.

"We will not tolerate any form of verbal or physical attack against our staff.

“It is totally unacceptable when our firefighters are performing their duty to keep the public safe. I'm sure many local residents will be appalled to hear what our crews have been facing over the last few days.

"We will do everything we can to protect our staff and have CCTVs on every fire appliance which provides clear footage at incidents. We will not hesitate to use this evidence to prosecute anyone who behaves in this way."

The police have been notified about the attacks and may be requested to accompany fire crews to attend future incidents in the area. If anyone has any information about the attacks they should contact Northumbria Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.