The first firefighters' strike in 20 years is looming after union members across the UK have voted to take strike action in a dispute over pay.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) announced the results of the ballot with almost nine out of 10 voting in favour of striking.

The FBU said it has given the government and employers 10 days to respond with an improved offer before any dates are announced to avoid a strike.

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Matt Wrack, General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, said: "Firefighters across the UK have spoken. The Fire Brigades Union has a decisive mandate for strike action. 

"This is an overwhelming vote for strike action against an offer which would mean further significant cuts to real terms wages for firefighters and control room staff.”

The FBU said firefighters have lost at least 12% of the value of their pay since 2010. 

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Mr Wrack added: "This is an absolute last resort for our members. The responsibility for any disruption to services lies squarely with fire service employers and government ministers. 

"The government and the employers have the power to stop strikes from happening by making a credible offer that can resolve this dispute. The ball is in their court.  

"We have delayed calling strikes to allow the employers to meet us and make a new offer. I hope they take that opportunity. Otherwise, in the coming weeks, we intend to announce a series of strike dates and industrial action." 

Elena Whitham, Scottish Government Community Safety Minister,  said: “It is disappointing that the Fire Brigades Union has voted for industrial action. At this point, we would encourage continued negotiations through the well-established collective bargaining arrangements.

“The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has comprehensive contingency plans for industrial action based on making the best use of the resources available to keep communities safe.

“In addition, we are working with SFRS to consider appropriate military assistance as part of its business continuity arrangements in the event that negotiations fail.”