A CHIEF Fire Officer has re-assured the public that fire services will not be affected by possible strike action over job cuts.

David Johnson said that Essex Fire and Rescue Service was “dismayed and bemused” at the action the Fire Brigade Union (FBU) is taking.

He added: “I would firstly like to re-assure the public that they will continue to get the high level of service and we, and our crews, are proud to provide them.

"Yet again the FBU are unable to get their facts right, six out of ten of our fire fighters did not vote in favour of this action.

"We are happy to talk to the FBU about their concerns at any time but for us it will remain very much business as usual.”

Negotiations broke down earlier this week as Union officials accused the fire authority of failing to provide reassurances over jobs.

Under trade union legislation the FBU must give seven days notice of any intended action.