Shropshire firefighters on strike
[gallery] Shropshire and Mid Wales firefighters walked out on strike this afternoon in a row over pensions.
The national strike affected cover at Shrewsbury and Telford fire stations between noon and 4pm.
At Telford Central Fire Station more than 30 firefighters left their posts. At Shrewsbury there were around 12 workers on strike.
Steve Morris, from the Fire Brigades Union, said he hoped today's national action would get the Government back to the negotiating table.
Unions are calling it a "warning shot to the government" over firefighters' anger about making them work until they are 60.
One firefighter from Telford Central who was taking part in the strike, said: "I am taking part to protect my pension rights and also my family.
"This is my opportunity to protect my future and prevent what the Government is trying to do."
Another firefighter from Telford Central said: "It is just ludicrous to expect a firefighter or any other member of the public to save someone's life at 60 years old."
Adam Matthews, assistant group commander at Telford Central said: "Under current proposals my personal circumstances would be that I am expected to work 10 years longer than I signed up for in my contract.
"We want to make the Government aware we are serious about protecting out pensions, we need to show a level of solidarity."
Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service said while its control centre remained operational, calls were prioritised according to their level of seriousness.
Shropshire Chief Fire Officer John Redmond said today: "We have been planning for potential strike action for some time and feel that we are fully prepared."
The strike was not expected to hit part-time stations elsewhere in Shropshire.
In Powys, Mid & West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said it had "robust" plans in place and will continue to operate business as usual as far as possible during the four- hour strike.
Chris Davies, assistant chief fire officer for Powys, Mid & West Wales added: "Our number one priority is to ensure public safety by providing the best possible service throughout this period of strike action."
Think before you dial 999 during strike, says Shropshire fire chief
Star comment: Firefighting a financial minefield
