Firefighters have announced two more strikes.

Members of the Fire Brigades Union will walk out between 6pm and 10pm next Friday and Saturday (December 13 and 14) over planned changes to their pensions.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service has put back up plans in place to ensure 999 calls are answered.

Chris Strickland, deputy chief fire officer, said: “The strikes have been called on two weekend evenings so many people across the county will be out and about enjoying themselves with friends, colleagues and family in the run up to Christmas.

“Therefore, not only are we asking residents to take extra care during the strikes when there will be reduced fire cover, but we are also encouraging people to drive safely during rush hour and try not to overdo it if consuming alcohol – both at home and out in our towns and cities.

“We are working hard to maintain a good level of service to the communities of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Quite a few of our rural stations will be available as normal and we will crew stations in urban areas with operational officers from station commander right up to chief fire officer.

“This will ensure experienced crews are available to deal with any incidents that happen, which we hope will be reassuring for members of the public.”