THE FIRE Brigades Union has announced they will be taking four days of strike action next weekend - which coincides with a number of firework displays in the town. 

The walk-out is part of a long-running dispute between firefighters and the government over changes to pensions and retirement age.

Over the last 12 months there have been numerous shorter strikes but this will be the longest so far.

Members will walk out at 6pm on October 31 and return at the same time on November 4, the day before Bonfire Night.

Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said: “Firefighters are incandescent following two months of negotiations which have led to no new proposals.

“Firefighters will not stand by and see our members’ pension rights destroyed by a government which does not give a damn about the safety or wellbeing of firefighters or the long term

“The public do not want 60 year olds tackling fires. Everyone understands the stupidity of these plans – except government Ministers.

“We remain committed to resolving this dispute in the interests of our members and the public at large.”

The strike action will coincide with the popular fireworks display and bonfire at Lydiard Park on Saturday night which attracts hundreds of spectators. The Swindon Lions will also host their fireworks display at the Polo Ground on the same night.