Firefighters set to strike over changes to pensions and working arrangements

Firefighters in Windsor, Maidenhead and Slough are set to strike on Wednesday next week between noon and 4pm.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) announced today that its members would strike over national disputes concerning changes to firefighters' pensions and working arrangements.

The Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) has plans in place to provide cover during the strike period but has appealed for residents to take extra care.

Acting chief fire officer Olaf Baars said:"I want to reassure the public that we will be answering emergency calls and responding to life risk incidents but we are asking people to reduce demand by calling us only in a genuine emergency during any periods of industrial action."

Berkshire residents are being encouraged to consider calling other relevant agencies in non-emergency situations - such as a locksmiths or the local authority.