KEIGHLEY councillors have added their voice to criticism of youths who attacked fire crews this week.

The district councillors spoke following a meeting at Keighley Fire Station involving politicians, police officers and fire chiefs.

Ward councillors Kaneez Akthar and Abid Hussain spoke with the emergency services representatives about the horrific events of Tuesday and Wednesday.

Firefighters had come under attack from youths in areas of Keighley including Highfield, while other young people attacked vehicles and people with bricks, eggs and fireworks.

Cllr Akthar said: “I was saddened to hear of the reckless and thoughtless behaviour of some of our young people towards the fire crew teams attending emergency calls during bonfire festivities.

“The crews should be commended on their courage and determination to carry on amidst such intimidating and reckless behaviour from a minority of young people.

“I am aware local police teams attended to assist and support the fire crews in carrying out their duties.

“It is reassuring that our local police teams are working closely with the fire service team to identify and arrest the persons involved in the disorder last night and I would urge anyone with information regarding the identity of persons involved to contact the local police.”

The attackers were also slammed by Cllr Khadim Hussain, who like Abid Hussain and Kaneez Akthar represents Keighley Central ward – scene of most of the trouble – on Bradford Council.

Cllr Hussain said he had received numerous messages from local residents as the trouble went on during Bonfire Night.

He was particularly critical of youths who built a bonfire in the middle of Belgrave Road, Highfield, and ambushed the fire engine that went to put it out.

He said: “The culprits must be brought to justice. The Fire Service is there to protect the public.

“Woe forbid if one bit of that fire had spread into a house with children. It would be catastrophic.”