Firefighters in Essex have voted to attend 999 calls only.

The industrial action was agreed after representatives of the Fire Brigades Union held an emergency meeting yesterday afternoon.

It meant from last night firefighters would not do any routine work such as cleaning and washing fire engines, fire prevention visits and inspections. Training may also be affected.

They are protesting over a personnel issue and management handling of allegations made about part-time Epping fire station.

They claim a part-time firefighter was sacked unfairly and want management to review the situation and hold an internal inquiry.

Branch union meetings have been held over the last few days where firefighters were invited to vote on industrial action.

After the vote union representatives met Essex County Fire and Rescue's chief officer David Turner which was "constructive."

A union meeting was planned for today and hopes are high the dispute will be resolved in a matter of days.

Essex Fire Brigades Union chairman Graham Noakes said: "The position may change today. The temperature may ease.

"The whole case revolves around fairness. We believe this particular firefighter has been dismissed unfairly and all we are asking for is an independent review into the reasons why he was sacked. It is a very complicated issue."

National negotiations over proposals to change the national wage, which have raised the spectre of a national fire strike, are not involving Essex at the moment.

It is a separate issue being dealt with at a higher level, but if unresolved could mean Essex firefighters will show solidarity and walk out.

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