EMERGENCY fire engines were yesterday withdrawn from frontline action in Merseyside to train staff how to respond if a threatened strike goes ahead.

Four appliances were controversially removed from stations at Liverpool city centre, Old Swan, Wallasey and Crosby.

It followed official confirmation from the Merseyside Fire Brigade Union (FBU) that balloting for industrial action had started.

The FBU described the move as “provocative and intimidatory” and said it would put the public’s lives at risk.

The union has threatened a mass walkout following the sacking of Kevin Hughes, who worked at Whiston fire station.

The firefighter was dismissed for gross misconduct after being arrested for allegedly assaulting another officer’s son during a brawl.

Police dropped all charges, but despite no action being taken, Merseyside Fire Service axed Mr Hughes from his post after more than a decade’s service.

Last night management confirmed they had taken away four “live” appliances to “prepare and provide resilience” ahead of potential strike action.