Boy held over firework attack on emergency crews

A fire broke out on the third floor of a high-rise building

A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life after emergency services were hit with fireworks while tackling a flat fire.

Firefighters and police were called to Knowsley Heights, a block of flats in Huyton on Merseyside, on Wednesday following reports youths were aiming fireworks at the building.

Fireworks were hurled at officers and crews as they put out a third-floor balcony fire and a female police officer suffered a minor leg injury, Merseyside Police said.

"We will not tolerate this type of disgraceful behaviour, particularly when it involves emergency services staff being targeted in such a way," Ch Insp Kevin Chatterton said.

"It is only by sheer good fortune that nobody was seriously injured."

The force said a 14-year-old boy was arrested at about 19:20 GMT and remained in custody.

A teenager at the scene was injured by a firework and treated by the North West Ambulance Service.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) said it was "urging people to respect emergency service workers".

"Fire crews are out protecting our communities and do not deserve to be attacked," a spokesperson said.

Knowsley Council leader Graham Morgan condemned the actions of those who "needlessly risked the safety of residents and emergency workers".

"I am shocked and saddened that our hardworking firefighters have been targeted maliciously whilst attending a call out," he said.

"I'd like to thank all of the emergency services for their professionalism, under very difficult circumstances."