PICKETS walked out against First Great Western rail again yesterday as a strike over jobs, services and safety entered its second day.

The company is set to introduce Hitachi’s new Intercity Express Project trains serving south-west England and south Wales, but they have no provision for guards or chefs.

Rail union RMT general secretary Mick Cash said that the strikers were setting an example for the rest of the trade union movement in defence of jobs, services and safety in the face of continuing attacks.

“Our pickets have reported strong public support for this action as the people who use these routes know only too well what profiteering and cuts mean in terms of their safety and the quality of service,” he said.

Mr Cash called for new talks with First Great Western and assurances on jobs, services and safety.