Police are probing an attack on a fire crew by a gang of youths.

The emergency workers were ambushed by thugs after attending a blaze in fields near Patterton railway station.

Around 80 drunken teenagers had gathered in the open air spot, causing a disturbance, before setting some rubbish alight.

When the fire crew arrived, some of the yobs hurled stones and bottles at them.

The thugs then ran off when the police arrived.

Inspector Michelle Grant this week issued an appeal for witnesses to the incident, which took place at around 7pm on Friday, April 29.

She also asked East Renfrewshire parents to keep an eye on their children and to know where they are.

Inspector Grant said: “Thankfully, no-one was injured.

“We will not tolerate this anti-social and violent behaviour towards our colleagues in the fire service or indeed the wider community.

“Whilst we understand most young people are out enjoying our open spaces responsibly, there are those who continue to engage in anti-social and criminal activity which is causing concern.

“Officers are continuing to investigate this incident and are reviewing CCTV. Anyone with any information is encouraged to call 101.”

Police say the fire crew attack is the latest in a series of drink-related incidents involving East Renfrewshire youths.

They also revealed details of a robbery and vandalism attack on a store by yobs earlier last month.

At around 9.30pm on May 3, two young men stole bottles of booze from the Premier Store in Eaglesham Road, Clarkston.

They also smashed one of the shop’s windows as they left, making their way towards Sheddens Roundabout with a larger gang of young men and women.

One of the group was wearing a grey tracksuit and white trainers and walking with a distinctive limp, while another was wearing a red Puffa-style jacket and black knee-length shorts.

Inspector Grant said: “We are keen to speak to these individuals and our officers are continuing investigations into identifying those responsible.

“I would appeal to parents and carers to know where their children are, what they are doing and who they are with.”

She added: “We will be working over the summer months in order to tackle this anti-social behaviour and, where necessary, deal with those engaged in criminal activity in our area robustly.”