Industrial strike action to take place today

Thousands of workers from across the Midlands will strike and take other forms of industrial action today, in a protest over public sector pensions, pay and jobs.

Union leaders predict up to 400,000 workers across the country will be involved in a wave of demonstrations.

Among those taking part in today's action includes civil servants, health workers and lecturers.

Jobcentres, airports, tax offices, colleges, driving test centres, museums and military sites will all be hit by this week's strike.

The walkout follows last November's huge stoppage by over one-and-a-half million workers in protest at the planned changes to their pensions.

Up to 16,000 off-duty police officers, including those travelling from the Midlands, will take to the streets of London.

They are banned from striking under law but will hold a protest against proposed changes to their pay and conditions.

Rallies will be held across the Midlands, including Birmingham, Telford and Nottingham.