Assaults on capital's firefighters double in the past year

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Data obtained under the Freedom of Information Act shows there were 18 incidents reported in 2006/07. The Fire Brigades Union has expressed concern about the attacks. But its officials said that even though under reporting could be masking an even higher number of assaults, London still recorded one of the lowest figures for attacks compared to elsewhere in Britain.

FBU regional secretary Joe MacVeigh said: "It is almost beyond belief that fire crews are attacked and abused while fighting fires and trying to save lives. It cannot be part of anyone's job to face abuse, threats or attacks."

He credited youth and community programmes, including Local Intervention Fire Education, for their efforts in teaching young people fire fighting skills and keeping attack levels relatively low.

The programme is an intensive five day course that teaches teenagers fire fighting skills alongside real firefighters. Mr MacVeigh added: "The young people on these courses are made aware that while fire crews and appliances are the direct targets, the victims are those who live in these communities."