Firefighters attacked at bonfire

Firefighters have been attacked with bottles at the scene of a bonfire in Hamiltonsbawn in County Armagh.

It happened in the early hours of Sunday at Annareagh Road in the village.

Crews who had responded to reports that the bonfire was out of control were approached by eight men who shouted abuse before throwing bottles at them.

A fire hydrant key was also taken. It was later recovered by police, who have appealed for witnesses to the incident.

Victor Spence, Portadown district commander of the fire and rescue service said: "Thankfully attacks on our firefighters are declining year on year and although this was an isolated incident, I am asking the community for their support to ensure that firefighters are able to carry out their job without fear of attack or harassment.

"Firefighters have a job to do to protect the local community and if they are called out to attend a bonfire that is out of control, they are responding because someone in that area is concerned."