THEY didn't want to be there, but every sounded horn, every wave of support, told them why they were.

Red Watch started its shift at Hereford Fire Station as normal last Friday morning. Even though most kept eyes and ears on the news overnight.

The late crew had completed its appliance inventories and tested the breathing apparatus. Everything was ready for the shift's first 'shout'.

Then at 9am changeover the station's red doors rattled open and Red Watch walked out as one.

The strike was on.

Together they spoke of frustration, anger and confusion that it should be so. All they wanted to do was their job; not leave 'their' public without the service it deserved.

Sub-officer Ron Morris, on duty until the strike started at 9am said: "We are absolutely gutted.

"All we want to do is get on with the job we are paid to do. We were hoping a deal would be sorted out at the last minute and now we hear this.

"We are pig sick."