Firefighters injured by missiles

Two firefighters have been injured after a crew was attacked in west Belfast on Saturday night.

They were tackling a car fire in the Springhill Avenue area when youths started throwing bottles and bricks at them.

The two injured firemen were treated in hospital after being hit by missiles.

The crew was forced to withdraw from the area. The attack happened shortly after 2300 BST and police have appealed for witnesses to contact them.

A police spokesperson condemned the attack: "Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service is an essential service and therefore the lifeblood of any community.

"It provides an invaluable service and makes a real difference to people's lives on a daily basis.

"Attacks on any emergency service not only puts staff at serious risk but also endangers the lives of the whole community."