A GANG of yobs attacked firefighters with fireworks as they attended a hoax emergency.

The gang blockaded the firefighters from Leigh into Westbourne Avenue as they launched their attack at 9.50pm on Wednesday.

Four hours earlier firefighters were also attacked by missiles and fireworks after being called to a fake emergency in Salford.

Beverley Hughes, Greater Manchester’s deputy mayor for policing and crime, said: “These attacks not only affect the firefighters mentally and physically but they can also have a really negative impact on the community.

“This type of hostile action takes up valuable time and resources that might be needed at serious incidents elsewhere.

“It is totally unacceptable and we will pursue anyone making those malicious and dangerous calls.”

After realising there was no fire at Westbourne Avenue, the firefighters discovered that the road had been blocked by wheelie bins.

Their fire engine was then pelted with fireworks by the yobs before they managed to escape.

It is one of 22 instances of attacks against Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) firefighters so far this year, compared to 16 the previous year.

Area manager Paul Etches, GMFRS’ head of prevention, said: “During 2017 we have seen a substantial increase in attacks on firefighters while attending emergency incidents and protecting the public of Greater Manchester.

“The use of fireworks in these recent events is an extremely dangerous escalation and we will be working with partners to examine where these are currently being purchased.

“Premises are generally only licensed to sell fireworks between October 15 and November 10.

“Anyone selling outside this period are liable to prosecution.”