VITAL emergency services are threatening to strike on New Year's Eve.

Furious ambulance crews, who could prove to be party-goers' lifeline, could be staging a walk-out at the height of Millennium Eve celebrations.

According to a local paramedic, who did not wish to be identified, ambulance crews are furious that nursing staff will get a 4.7 per cent Millennium pay boost, while they will get just three per cent - now they plan to strike.

The paramedic added: "In the past, we have always been given the same raise as nurses but this year it was different.

"We feel we are just as important. We have trained for this job. It doesn't pay as well as the other emergency services. Striking over the Millennium would hopefully prove how vital we are."

National ambulance bosses are due to meet union representatives in the next couple of weeks, in a bid to resolve the matter and prevent a strike ballot of members of the Transport and General Workers Union, the Association of Professional Ambulance Personnel and Unison.

An APAP spokesman said: "All three trade unions, ourselves, the TGU and Unison have rejected this pay offer.

"A ballot was due to take place, but was stopped pending these new talks." Peter Cooney, of Lancashire Ambulance NHS Trust, said: "We have received no official confirmation but know about the talks.

"If the worst came to the worst, the police and management would be used in emergencies."

The threat of strike action came as Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service issued a check-list of safety procedures for Millennium party organisers.

Fire chiefs have issued the warnings to the owners of clubs, pubs and other licensed premises, as they are concerned that the potential for overcrowding in venues which remain open will 'compromise public safety'.

For details of safety regulations, contact your nearest Fire Safety Department.

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