FIREFIGHTERS called to a recent fire in Wharton were attacked by a gang, who threw stones, bottles and fireworks.

Attending one of the 37 deliberate fires in the area over the past two months, firefighters were attacked but uninjured on November 28.

The spate of anti-social behaviour has led to police appeals, with officers also accompanying fire crews in the Wharton area since the attack.

Weaver Vale Housing Trust say they will seek to evict anyone found to be involved in the recent crime wave.

Watch manager Lee Cliffe said: “Now, when we are called to fires in Wharton we have to rendezvous with police who then escort us to the scene both for our safety and for the safety of others who live in that area. It is only a matter of time before someone sustains a serious injury or, worse, is killed.”

Sam Lloyd-Jones, tenancy enforcement officer for Weaver Vale Housing Trust said: “These illegal bonfires are causing damage and making local people feel scared.

“These mindless acts by a minority of individuals are affecting the quality of life for the majority of law-abiding residents on the estate.

“If Weaver Vale Housing Trust tenants, or members of their households, are found to be involved in this kind of behaviour then we will use the powers available to us as a landlord, for example seeking to evict those responsible.”

There have been 67 deliberate fires in Winsford since the beginning of October, compared to 14 in the same period last year.

Lee added: “The crime of arson is extremely dangerous. Fire spreads quickly so what may seem like a small fire can easily become out of control, damaging property and, in worse case scenarios, cause injury or even death.

“Not only do these fires put the lives of firefighters at risk, they also cause considerable danger to the public because, while fire engines are at the arson scenes, they are not available to respond to real emergencies.”

Police are focusing their efforts on the Dee Way area, including targeting individuals and distributing leaflets to gain the support of the community.

Chief Insp Simon Meegan, of Northwich Local Policing Unit, said: “Although we sometimes see an increase in this type of incident over the Hallowe’en and bonfire period, it is disappointing that a minority of young people are continuing to engage in this behaviour.

“We will continue to work alongside Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service to deal with anti-social behaviour and small rubbish fires in the Wharton area of Winsford and would urge anyone with information to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

In an average week in England the crime of arson costs the UK tax payer at least £45 million. There are also at least two deaths and 50 injuries every seven days.