Firefighters at Sellafield have gone on a 12-hour strike today over pay.

Members of the GMB union have taken industrial action in a long-running pay dispute.

The strike action started at 6am and is expected to take place until 6pm tonight.

Sellafield Ltd said emergency cover is being provided.

The firm has advised employees to follow any signage, advice and guidance from the police while industrial action is taking place.

Cumbria Police warned motorists via social media about possible delays.

Firefighters who are part of the union held three 12-hour strikes last year, and a fourth earlier this month.

Union members took to the picket line this morning.

GMB official Chris Jukes said another union official joined members on the picket line, and reported that workers going through the gates were "very supportive" of the firefighters.

Speaking about the pay discussions with Sellafield Ltd, Mr Jukes said: "We acknowledge Sellafield has made a new offer in December including an allowance related to security and terrorism, but it falls short of expectations and view expressed in negotiations.

"The two sides are not miles apart, but there needs to be further local negotiations to reach a settled position."

Further talks are set to take place later this week.

A Sellafield Ltd spokesman said: "The safety and security of the Sellafield site are our priorities during any industrial action.

"As always, we will work with other agencies to try to minimise disruption for the public.

"Full emergency safety cover will be in place during this strike. This will be provided by Securitas, which supplied cover during the previous firefighters' strike."