Thirty thousand firefighters in England walked out on strike for 24 hours today in their long-running dispute over pensions.

The coalition government launched its attack on firefighters’ pensions soon after being elected in 2010.

It demanded that firefighters remain on front-line duties until the age of 60 — or lose part of their pensions if unable to maintain front-line fitness.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) said it was almost impossible for firefighters in their late 50s to maintain the fitness levels demanded by their lifesaving work.

The dispute began three years ago, with 30 bouts of strike action as the government refused to negotiate.

FBU general secretary Matt Wrack said: “Firefighters have one of the most expensive pension schemes in either the private or public sector paying £4,000 annually from a wage of just over £29,000.

“The government’s own evidence shows that two-thirds of 55 to 60-year-olds would be unable to pass the firefighter fitness test.”

Labour is attempting to force a Commons debate on the dispute and 260 MPs have signed an early day motion (No 454) opposing the attack on fire

fighters’ pensions.

In Buckinghamshire, in addition to taking strike action, firefighters will stage a march and rally in protest against the sacking of firefighter Ricky Matthews, who is an FBU activist.

He was sacked by Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire and Rescue Service.

He has been a firefighter for 17 years and is a member of the FBU’s executive council. He was sacked after taking part in the FBU’s recent four-day strike.

Mr Wrack said: “Ricky was sacked for taking part in lawful strike action by a fire service that has a history of bullying and intimidating firefighters and union members.

“His sacking is an attack on every firefighter and their right to organise in the workplace to secure better conditions and a better public service.

“Firefighters across the UK stand united with their bullied and victimised colleague and call for Ricky Matthews to be reinstated.”

The protest assembles at 11.30am in Oakfield Road Park, Aylesbury, followed by a march and rally.