HEALTH workers hit the streets outside Dudley’s main hospital for the first strike action by medical staff in three decades.

The four-hour strike by members of seven trade unions saw thousands of people join picket lines across the UK, including at Russells Hall Hospital today (October 13).

Unions are in dispute with the government over pay, they argue the current offer would see 60 per cent of staff get no increase while higher graded workers would get a one per cent rise.

Tracy Wood, UNISON regional organiser, said: “UNISON members do not take this action lightly, this government's treatment of NHS workers has angered them and this anger has now turned into action.

“We know health workers don’t take strike action lightly or often. The last action over pay was 32 years ago. But we also know a demoralised and demotivated workforce isn’t good for patients.”

A work to rule was set to continue for a further four days which will see staff refusing to do overtime and insisting on taking breaks.

Despite the action bosses said no lives were put at risk.

West Midlands Ambulance Service chief executive, Anthony Marsh, said: “Our staff work extremely hard in often very difficult circumstances and we have sympathy for their position.

“We appreciate taking strike action is a very difficult decision, however, by working to a list of exemptions, we have been able to provide a good service for the most seriously ill and injured patients.

“Action short of a strike will continue throughout the week and we would urge the public to only use the 999 service if necessary. Please consider dialing 111 in the first instance or use other services such as your GP, a pharmacy or a walk-in centre.”