TOWN Hall bosses say they are "pulling out all the stops" to help vulnerable people during tomorrow's (Wed July 17) strike.

Bury Council workers are taking part in the first national one-day stoppage for more than a decade.

Members of the trade unions Unison, TGWU and GMB have rejected a three per cent pay rise. They are demanding six per cent, or £1,750.

Council leaders say they have made contingency plans, although they will not know the full effect of the strike until tomorrow.

Mr Guy Berry, the council's director of personnel, said he had spoken with local Unison leaders about maintaining essential services.

"We anticipate that day centres and nurseries will be closed," he said. "Our intention is to try and have staff at elderly persons' and children's homes, and to provide child protection and home-care services for vulnerable clients.

"Basically, we are trying to pull out all the stops to protect those most at need."

He added: "We anticipate that there will be no household refuse collection, although we suggest that bins are left out in case a skeleton service can operate.

"Bins which are not emptied will be serviced a week later, on Wednesday July 24.

"If we can, we will be attempting to remove clinical waste and trade refuse on health and safety grounds.

"Schools may also be affected by industrial action from caretakers, school meals staff, nursery nurses and classroom assistants.

"Hopefully, parents will be warned in advance. However, those who are unsure should contact their school.

"The stoppage is just for one day and we emphasise that our services will be operating as normal for the rest of the week."