Watch manager Barry Martland was lucky to escape injury after being hit on the helmet with a brick as he and his team doused the fire in Denison Road.

The fire chief, who has served the district for 20 years, said: "It's not something you expect when you're trying to help people and do a job.

"The message is we will find out whoever did this and prosecute them through the courts. It's totally mindless."

A crew from Selby's Canal Road station was scrambled to the fire at 6.15pm last Wednesday. On arrival, the bonfire was well alight, with smoke causing nearby neighbours concern.

Mr Martland, 48, said: "There were about ten or 12 youths in the area. I told them we were going to have to put the fire out.

"I had my back turned to them, then I was hit by a stone or a brick. Luckily, it only struck me on the helmet and didn't cause me any injuries."

The gang made off before police arrived.

Mr Martland added: "Normally, people in Selby district are pleased to see the fire brigade. Attacks like this are rare – I think there's been about three in my 20 years – but the last thing we want is this sort of thing increasing."

Selby Fire Station manager Cecil Pugh said: "It's difficult to understand why anyone would want to attack people who are trying to protect others.

"Attacks like these not only put fire-fighters at risk, but also members of public. If our crews are injured, they can't attend further incidents and that could have tragic consequences."

Under new laws, anyone who attacks emergency service workers can be prosecuted and fined up to £5,000.