Retired firefighters in Scotland are being urged to volunteer to provide cover while members of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) undertake strike action.

Following the conclusion of a two-week consultative ballot, FBU members overwhelmingly rejected a 5% pay offer, with a turnout of 78% and a reject vote of 79%.

Bosses from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) have written to retired workers urging them to volunteer and provide cover on strike days.

The letter, dated November 11, read: “The SFRS has a legal responsibility to provide an emergency response to protect the communities of Scotland. It is therefore essential that we plan for the impact of any potential action and develop contingency arrangements to ensure we continue to keep our communities safe and protect life.

“In order to ensure the highest possible level of preparation and contingency planning for this potential industrial action we are currently reviewing all options in order that, where possible, we can maintain provision of essential services and fire cover in line with our statutory duties.

“SFRS are requesting assistance from recently retired employees who may wish to support our available uniformed officers to provide the highest possible level of cover during the proposed period of industrial action.”

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