FIREFIGHTERS in Ilford, Woodford and Hainault have gone out on strike in a row over new contracts.

The second of two eight hour London-wide strikes began today at 10am.

Firefighters downed tools and were joined by other off-duty firefighters in picket lines outside their stations.

Crews at Ilford Station were led out by Fire Brigade Union executive council member for London Ian Lehair.

He said: “It’s disappointing that we’re having to take strike action again.

“We would have thought that management would have lifted the threat to sack by now.

“FBU is available to meet again on Tuesday to attempt to avert further strike action.

“Nobody welcomes strike action.

“This is a dispute not of our making.”

FBU is unhappy about changes to shift patterns and “sacking notices” which have been sent to staff.

A private firm has been brought in to provide cover during the strike.

It can deploy up to 27 fire engines across London and can attend fires where people are involved, road traffic accidents and other serious incidents.

They may not be able to attend things like grass fires, flooding and people trapped in lifts.

A controversial 47-hour strike is set to begin on Bonfire Night (November 5), unless an agreement is reached

But all talks between brigade and union representatives so far have broken down.

Are you being affected by the strike? Email jennifer.coombes@archant.co.uk or call 020 8477 3825