Public sector workers have brought services to a standstill across the northeast of England.
In Durham County Council 244 out of 265 schools have closed for the day, while most schools are closed in Darlington.
No civilian police staff are on duty in police stations in Durham County Council and picketing is taking place at police headquarters and major stations across Cleveland.
Strikes by transport workers have suspended the North-Shields-South Shields ferry for the day, while all museums across Tyne and Wear have closed.