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

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

Among those walking out are NHS staff, council workers and teachers..which has meant most of the schools in Bournemouth poole and Christchurch have had to close...

Donna - a primary school teacher in Dorset says she's striking to try and make the government listen:

CLIP DORSET TEACHER 4

Because of the strikes - 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..

Cabinet Office Minister Francis Maude says it's the wrong time to strike.

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