Residents in Gloucestershire are being reassured that a professional fire and rescue service will be maintained in the county despite further strike action.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has called for its members to engage in additional industrial action over national pension arrangements. The latest strike is planned for this Thursday, July 10 from 10am until 7pm, with further action at various times from Monday, July 14 until Monday, July 21.

Although the dispute is outside the control of Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, around 130 wholetime staff and a number of retained firefighters are members of the FBU and could support the strike.

Chief Fire Officer Stewart Edgar said: “We have significant contingency plans in place in the county, which have been proven to be effective in previous strikes.

“We would never be complacent however, and I would urge residents and business owners to make sure they do everything they can to stay safe in their homes or workplace.”

Homes and businesses are being urged to take extra care in safeguarding their properties- making sure their smoke alarm is working at least once a week.

Additional strikes will take place from:

• Monday, July 14: 6am–8am and 5pm–7pm

• Tuesday, July 15: 6am–8am and 5pm–7pm

• Wednesday, July 16: 6am–8am and 5pm–7pm

• Thursday, July 17: 6–8am and 5pm–7pm

• Friday, July 18: 6am–8am and 11pm–1am

• Saturday, July 19: 11am–1pm and 11pm–1am

• Sunday, July 20: 5pm–7pm

• Monday, July 21: 6am–8am and 5pm–7pm