Fireworks launched at police as 'more than 100' gather on Manchester street

An investigation is underway after fireworks were hurled at police officers by members of a large crowd on Bonfire Night. Greater Manchester Police says more than 100 people had to be dispersed from a gathering in Abbey Hey, Gorton, yesterday evening (November 5).

Neighbourhood police officers who had been patrolling Abbey Hey responded to reports of anti-social behaviour, a large bonfire and fireworks on Vine Street. As officers arrived, fireworks started to be aimed at them.

Following concerns for public safety, GMP deployed specialist officers to disperse the crowd. The Manchester Evening Newswitnessed the shocking scenes from inside a fire engine, after a crew had been called out to the scene.

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Tactical Aid Unit officers were already in attendance in an attempt to disperse the crowd by 7.30pm. Firefighters were kept inside the vehicle under orders by police for their own safety.

A decision was then taken to leave the area, with officers resolving the matter themselves. No injuries were reported to the force following the incident, GMP says.

Superintendent Chris Downey, of GMP’s City of Manchester North district, said: "It is shocking to see fireworks being used in an irresponsible manner. Our officers are just doing their job protecting the public from harm and should not be subject to attacks like this.

“Local residents, quite rightly, were upset and concerned at the behaviour and the danger they were causing by setting off fireworks in the street. Thankfully no one was injured, but this