RAY Mallon is to have talks with the bosses of a fire brigade where a strike threat was averted at the 11th hour.

Mr Mallon will be meeting Chief Fire Officer John Doyle, executive director Ian Hayton and members of his senior management team on Monday to discuss ways of strengthening links with the community.

Mr Mallon said: "I want to stress that the safety of the people of Middlesbrough is one of my key targets and, with that in mind, I am meeting fire service managers to discuss fire safety for our residents.

"I am also keen to see that the support for the fire service, as recently expressed nu many parts of the local community, is continued and strengthened. As mayor, I look forward with the fire service to look at the options for the long-term future of fire safety in Cleveland.''

Mr Hayton said: "Cleveland Fire Brigade is always ready and willing to listen and take on board the view of the communities it serves.

"Our mission is to work with others to build a safer environment and our vision is to deliver an efficient, responsive, modern service."

Firefighters were balloted on strike action over moves to having the brigade share the same control room as Cleveland Police and the ambulance service. The proposal was withdrawn on the eve of the result of the ballot becoming known.