Swindon hospital workers out on first of three strikes

Porters, cleaners and domestic staff have walked out

Support workers at Swindon's Great Western Hospital have begun the first of three one-day strikes.

Porters, cleaners and domestic staff have walked out over alleged managerial "bullying and harassment" by contractor Carillion.

The GMB union, which represents 150 of Carillion's 200-strong workforce, said 97.3% of voters backed the action.

Carillion said it was disappointed by the walkout but was "100% confident patient care will not be impacted".

General hospital manager Gemma Lynch said: "We'll make sure that people have the necessary inductions, training and health and safety will be covered, so I'm 100% confident that it will be business as usual."

Further strike action is planned for 21 and 23 February.