Ayrshire firefighters pelted with rocks as they tackle bonfire in more worrying abuse scenes

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Ayrshire firefighters have been pelted with rocks whilst tackling a bonfire in further scenes of mindless abuse. Crews were ambushed by a gang of youths who also tried to climb onto a fire appliance during a 999 call at Troon's Dundonald Road on Friday, November 3.

Three shameful instances were reported across the region during the build-up to Bonfire Night. Last Monday, firefighters experienced two instances of violence in Ardrossan.Crews were bombarded with fireworks, bricks and bottles after being mobilised to tackle a series of outdoor fires.Additionally, a firefighter was injured after missiles were thrown during an incident near Stevenston back in September.In total more than 500 emergency calls were responded to by firefighters across the West of Scotland on Bonfire Night and more than 240 bonfires attended.Ayrshire's top firefighter has blasted yobs involved and vowed to work with police to catch those responsible.Area Commander Ian McMeekin, SFRS Local Senior Officer for East, North and South Ayrshire, said: "No one should go to their work and expect to be attacked."Our firefighters protect their communities each and every day and do not deserve to be met with such mindless abuse."We know that the overwhelming majority of people across Scotland will be disgusted by this kind of behaviour, but it's important to note that violence against our staff cannot and will not be tolerated."We will be working closely with our police partners to identify those responsible."I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to all SFRS staff and our partners who have worked tirelessly to protect communities during this busy period."Nationally, a total of 15 attacks against firefighters were recorded during a seven day