More than 5 thousand public sector workers in Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch are striking today..to protest against proposed changes to pensions.

The government want them to pay more and work longer..

That's what Donna - who's a primary school teacher in Dorset is worried out:

CLIP DORSET TEACHER 2

She's one of many teachers who have walked out today - which means all schools except one in Bournemouth are closed...and many others in Poole and Christchurch are affected too.

Poole lifting bridge is shut to vehicles...some of us may not get our bins collected and the local ambulance trust is asking us to only call 999 in an emergency as NHS staff join council workers in the walkout.

Unions have organised a big rally in Bournemouth central gardens from 12...and another demo is being held in Poole park..

During his Autumn Statement yesterday, the Chancellor urged union leaders to cancel the walkout in favour of talks - but obviously that hasn't happened.

[Take AUDIO
NUMBER: 012
OUT WORDS: the negotiations
Duration: 16"]