Irvine and Kilwinning fire crews given Bonfire Night protection

Nov 6 2009 by Eric McGowan, Irvine Herald

FIRE crews in Irvine and Kilwinning were given police escorts on Bonfire Night to protect them from stone-throwing yobs.

Cop cars shadowed fire engines as they attended illegal bonfires in housing schemes in a repeat of last year’s action.

Dreghorn Fire Station Commander Graeme Binning said the move was “sad but necessary” to ensure his firefighters could do their job safely.

“We have had incidents in the past where crews have attended bonfires only to find themselves ambushed by youngsters armed with stones and sticks,” he added.

“Last year the escorts helped and there’s no doubt the police presence allows us to go about our business without distractions.

“It is very sad that these measures have to be put in place but at the end of the day it’s the best solution for everyone”

Fire, police and community wardens teamed up in the run-up to the event to hunt down and dismantle any illegal bonfires.

Station Commander Binning added: “These fires can get out of hand very quickly, particularly as many of them are not manned by a responsible adult.”

North Ayrshire Council have set-up a rapid response cleansing team to dismantle illegal bonfires.

To report an illegal bonfire in your area call 01294 223985.