FIREFIGHTERS say they will strike for a further eight days over pension proposals.

The industrial action, organised by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), relates to a dispute over pension changes and a later retirement age.

The FBU has said workers face dismissal ifsimply because they cannot maintain the high physical fitness levels requirements necessary for their role until they are age 60.

The proposals would also mean that if firefighters opt for early retirement, the reduction in their pension would be unacceptably high.

Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said: β€œIt is absolutely ludicrous that a government can impose a scheme which means that firefighters will have to ride engines and rescue people from fires up to age 60. This is unsafe and unrealistic for both firefighters and the public.”

The strikes will take place from August 9 to 16.