Plans by the Fire Brigade Union to strike during a firework display have been branded a 'cynical and provocative ploy' by a council.

Hammersmith and Fulham Council has slammed the decision to strike on Friday November 1 and said the displays at Bishops Park and Ravenscourt Park will be going ahead despite the threat of strikes.

The council said it would be working flat out to guarantee the safety of visitors and to ensure both events run without hitch.

Cllr Greg Smith, Hammersmith and Fulham Council deputy leader, said: “Union plans to strike on the Friday when many fireworks displayed have been arranged is a cynical ploy to cause maximum disruption. We all appreciate the huge risks that firemen and women take in their everyday work but this is a highly provocative move and I’d like to reassure residents that our two displays will not be disrupted.”

Firefighters in England and Wales are to stage two strikes in a row over pensions. Fire Brigades Union members are due to walk out on November 1 from 6:30-11:00pm and on November 4 from 6:00-8:00am.

However, London Fire Commissioner Ron Dobson said it was prepared to deal with the strikes and would have 27 fire engines based at strategic points across the capital.

“The evening strike date falls on the Friday before bonfire night. It is just before Diwali and coincides with half-term, so people need to be really careful with fireworks and bonfires,” he said.

The council displays, which this year will have a Superhero theme, take place on Friday, November 1 at Bishops Park, Fulham and Saturday, November 2 at Ravenscourt Park, Hammersmith.

The gates will open at 6pm at both events and children's fireworks will take place at 7.15pm. The celebrations will culminate with a fantastic firework display choreographed to music at 8pm (approx).

Tickets can be purchased in advance for a 33 per cent saving - £5 per person via the Lyric Theatre box office www.lyric.co.uk (opens new window) or on 020 8741 6850.