Police in Northern Ireland have charged two men with a number of offences after a fire engine was stolen and taken on a joyride in Larne, Co Antrim on Saturday.

One man (19) faces charges including burglary and dangerous driving and the second man (66) been charged with five offences including burglary and aggravated vehicle taking causing damage to property, according to the PSNI.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday and significant damage was caused to a number of cars and house in the Glenarm Road area of Larne.

A spokesman for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) condemned those behind the attack. “At approximately 4.30am (on Saturday) morning, Larne station was broken into and a fire engine was stolen,” said fire chief Kevin O’Neill.

“Subsequently, this fire engine was driven into a number of cars and houses in the Larne Area.

“This incident is ongoing and there are currently no reports of any injuries at the scene. The station was damaged during the break in and NIFRS have initiated their business continuity arrangements to ensure fire cover is maintained within the Larne area.”

DUP MLA Gordon Lyons said: “Breaking into a fire station and stealing a fire engine shows a clear disregard for the people of Larne and those who serve in the fire service.

“But to drive it around the town and create mayhem along the way demonstrates just how low some people are prepared to stoop.

“I am thankful that no one was hurt or killed, however this was an extremely stupid and dangerous thing to do. As a result, the scene on the Glenarm Road this morning looks like something out of an action film and the people responsible have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

“They need to understand the consequences and seriousness of their actions and I hope that the police ensure that happens.”

The two men are to to appear at Coleraine Magistrates’ Court on Monday.