The eight-day walkout by members of the Fire Brigades Union began at 0900 GMT on Friday.

A reduced cover in Nottingham will be provided by the armed forces with their ageing Green Goddesses.

BBC News Online went on to the streets of Nottingham to find out what people thought of the latest strike action and found the views were mixed.

Student Kirsty Jarratt, 20, said: "I think it is irresponsible because there are people's lives at stake.

Linda Hargreaves said they should be paid more

"I think they are in a really difficult position, but it is irresponsible to strike.

"But I suppose there is little action that will get noticed."

Stronger views are held by jeweller Adrian Richardson, 45, from central Nottingham, who said: "I think it is outrageous of them personally.

"I did a bit of time with the Army and it is the same when you sign up to be a firefighter - there is a sense of duty.

"If they have got a problem with that they should get a job as a shopkeeper.

"I don't think anybody should withdraw their labour like that."

Pamela Challoner said firefighters have no choice

But the firefighters did get support elsewhere.

Linda Hargreaves, 44, from Cotgrave in Nottingham, said: "I agree with what they are trying to get, but I think they are going for too much money."

And Pamela Challoner, 59, a cleaner from Sneinton, said: "I know it endangers people's lives, but if it is the only way they are going to get what they want, they should do it."

Her view was backed by Melvyn Sansom, 53, from Clifton, who said: "I think they should get their wages, but it is up to the government to pay their worth. Where are we without them?"