FORENSIC scientists in Chepstow were today taking part in the first strike in the history of the service.

More than 1,600 workers across England and Wales were involved in the industrial action called over a long-running pay row, and employees were due to picket the Chepstow laboratory during the day.

The Forensic Science Service was holding its first strike in protest at a pay offer that union officials said was worth 1.1 per cent. About 1,000 non-union employees were expected to work as usual.

In March, forensic scientists from Chepstow were among 40 representatives from the country's seven laboratories who lobbied the House of Commons against plans to privatise the service.

The FSS is the leading provider of forensic science services to police forces in England and Wales.