THE FIRE strike that was due to take place tomorrow (Saturday) has been called off at the 11th hour.

Firefighters from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) will no longer be walking out from 6.30pm to 11.30pm as was planned after the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) agreed to postpone the industrial action.

Richard Lawrence, deputy chief fire officer, said: “We are pleased to hear positive dialogue has been taking place between the Government and the FBU, with the result that this specific period of strike action has been postponed.

“The service’s business continuity arrangements for this period of strike action have therefore been put on hold but remain ready to be implemented should the circumstances require.”