Grim Reaper steps down as firefighters talk

The cut-out had been erected on the roof while striking firefighters were on the picket line below.

Tuesday's gesture followed news that a second eight-day strike, due to start on Wednesday, had been shelved as both sides went into "talks about talks" with the national conciliation service, ACAS.

Summing-up this week's mood among colleagues, Leading Firefighter Graham Hobden said:

"It's much better to be talking. I think we are all of that opinion."

Striking firefighters say they have been heartened by the generosity of the public. But they are relieved to be back on duty.

Leading Firefighter Hobden said: "All the time there is talking going on it can only be good thing."

Describing life round the picket-line brazier, he said:

"It's not easy because we would much rather be back to work doing the job we want to be doing.

"But the public support has been wonderful and has made the days bearable.

"Throughout the time we have been out there public support has been very good.

"We have had donations of cash. We have had gifts of tins of food.

"People have come from over the road with fish and chips for us.

"The sandwich van down the road sent hot sausage rolls.

"It definitely needed something to get things going.

"In the last few days it seemed as if both sides were growing further apart."