A SOUTHAMPTON gang has been jailed for a total of nearly 30-years for launching a vicious firebomb attack on a pub where they thought their enemies were drinking.

Members of the self-styled Thornhill Boyz attacked the Castle Pub in Bitterne believing their bitter rivals the Townhill Park Boyz were inside.

Southampton Crown Court heard the mob of nine tried to smash windows before going inside armed with a hand gun and a Molotov Cocktail.

Fortunately the bomb failed to smash, though one man still suffered burns to his arm.

Likewise the handgun also failed to discharge preventing serious injuries to those inside the bar.

Sentencing them, Judge John Boggis QC, said: "A gang culture in this city is wholly unacceptable.

"It should be identified for what it is - groups of immature, feckless, work shy youths picking fights for the fun of it, simply because people live in another road."

DI Kath Barnes, who led the investigation, welcomed the sentences.

She told The Daily Echo: "I'm very pleased with the sentencing. The judge made it perfectly clear that gang violence on our city's streets is wholly unacceptable.

"This sends out a strong message to any young people who are currently involved in gang membership.

"It is important to any parent to be aware of what has happened in this court today, and ensure they are aware of what their children are involved in.

"It is important they distract their children from any involvement in gang membership."