Firefighters across Cornwall will be taking further strike action tonight, Christmas Eve, on New Year's Eve and again on January 3.

The Fire Brigades' Union has announced that its members will be downing tools between 7pm and tonight; from 6.30pm until 12.30am on New Year's Eve and from 6.30am and 8.30am on Saturday, January 3.

In addition to the strike action, FBU members have also voted to support “action short of a strike” which will result in fire service personnel refusing to undertake any voluntary overtime.

It is unclear at this time what effect this will have but there is a possibility of localised disruption to services, particularly around staff availability. The FBU has agreed the following dates and time for action short of a strike: Today, Christmas Eve, from 7pm until midnight (fire control staff only) and for 48 hours between 7pm on Friday, December 27 until 7pm on Sunday, December 29. CFRS Chief Fire Officer Des Tidbury said: “This series of dates for full strike action and for action short of strike action will again impact on how we deliver a fire and rescue service to the people of Cornwall.

“During the previous periods of strike action, the conduct of all of our staff, both those taking action and those working, was exemplary throughout and I expect that the same will apply this time.

“The contingency plans that we put in place, alongside the huge efforts made by those not taking strike action, kept Cornwall protected and safe throughout the duration. This was by no means a simple task and only highlights the dedication and determination of all Cornwall's fire fighters.

“Once again, we have contingency plans in place to maintain minimum levels of cover during the strike action. The most important thing to remember is that if you do have a fire, get out of the building, stay out and call 999 - you will get an emergency response.

“We will continue to respond to emergency calls and will obviously prioritise those where lives are at risk. Public and fire fighter safety remains of paramount importance and we will give the best service to the people of Cornwall within the limitations of the resources available to us.”