EMERGENCY services staff called out on Bonfire Night were attacked with fireworks by a large gang of youths, it has emerged.

A group of 15 to 20-year-olds deliberately targeted police officers and firefighters as they carried out joint patrols in the Southwick area of Sunderland.

Fireworks were thrown at officers and vehicles from both services as well as at houses in and around Ridley Street.

No one was injured, although a fence was damaged during the incident.

An investigation has been launched to identify and arrest those involved.

Inspector Don Wade said: “This is absolutely abhorrent behaviour and it is only pure luck no one was injured by the fireworks. The attack was completely unprecedented, we did not have any of these sorts of issues last year and we won’t tolerate any more.

“We have now launched an investigation to identify and arrest those involved and will not stop until they have faced the consequences.

“If anyone does know the identity of those who were responsible then we want to hear from them.”

Keith Carruthers, area manager of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said the attacks were "indefensible".

He said: “Our sole purpose is to protect and save the lives of everyone in our community and yet we have people who deliberately seek to place us and our appliances at risk. Fortunately, we have CCTV which will hopefully help in their identification.”