FIREFIGHTERS from Basing-stoke helped thousands of their colleagues bring central London to a standstill on Tuesday.

Fifteen officers from the town's station were among an estimated 10,000 firefighters from across Britain who marched through the city in support of a Fire Brigade Union (FBU) campaign over poor pay.

The demonstrators were demanding a minimum salary of £30,000, which, they argue, is a fair wage for a difficult and dangerous job. A fully qualified firefighter currently earns £21,500 after four years training.

As marchers from across the UK gathered in Trafalgar Square blowing whistles and sounding fire engine sirens, many members of the public gathered to applaud them.

Lud Ramsey, a Basingstoke fireman with 15 years in the service said: "Wages are a major issue. I am originally from Basingstoke but I live in Andover as I can't afford a mortgage here. I have a 10-year-old daughter and my wife, who currently works part-time, will have to get a full-time job if my wages do not improve."

David Eastick, 24, said he has been saving for four years to buy his first house, and has had to rely on financial support from his family to afford a property in Basingstoke.

He added: "I have lived in Oakley all my life and I want to continue to live and work in Basingstoke, even though it would be cheaper to live elsewhere."

Paul Christopher, acting chairman of Hampshire FBU, said he hoped the protest would help the public understand what firefighters face.

He added: "I'm angry that firefighters with families to support have no choice but to work a second job to make ends meet.

"Some firefighters are even forced to rely on state benefits to feed their children.

"I am very proud of the way that the Hampshire firefighters conducted themselves today, with dignity and good humour."