FIREFIGHTERS in Bradford were attacked 33 times last year, with one being hit by a stone and another incident leaving a fire engine badly damaged.

Incidents in Bradford made up almost half of the attacks on firefighters in West Yorkshire between March 2022 and April 2023, and included several occasions where fireworks were launched at crews.

The figures were discussed at a meeting of West Yorkshire Fire Authority on Thursday, when one Bradford Councillor said it was “really disappointing” that Bradford was consistently top of the table for firefighter assaults.

In total, there were 72 attacks on West Yorkshire firefighters in the 12-month period.

Apart from the 33 in Bradford, there were 22 in Leeds, eight in Kirklees, five in Wakefield and four in Calderdale.

In Bradford the crews based at the Leeds Road fire station bore the brunt of attacks, with 20 incidents over 12 months.

The 33 incidents included eight occasions where stones were thrown at crews, and another eight where fireworks were thrown.

On two occasions firefighters encountered people brandishing weapons.

On five occasions firefighters were physically assaulted.

A report to members said: “At one of these incidents (in Bradford) a firefighter was hit with a stone thrown by a member of the public.

“Five of these attacks have resulted in minor damage to our fire appliances with one causing severe damage to the fire appliance shattering a window and denting panels.

“Work is continuing with a variety of agencies from the police and district councils to community groups and youth leaders to address these issues.”

This work includes youth engagement work and deploying body worn cameras – the report added.

Councillor Ruth Wood (Lab, Royds) said: “It is really disappointing to see Bradford at the top of the list for attacks against firefighters.

“Have any of these miscreants been brought before the courts?”

Dave Walton, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, said: “We have been getting some individuals in front of the courts.

“The problem is evidence is always difficult, as a lot of these incidents involve throwing stones – which can take place some distance from the fire crews. A lot of the attacks happen around Bonfire Night when it is dark. It all makes it difficult to gather evidence.

“When we do get evidence, we will pursue a prosecution as best we can.”

Members were also told there had been a further two attacks on firefighters in Bradford since April.