Emma Shirley, 25, from Ashton, said: "Teachers should address the issue in a different way.

"I know unions advise striking as the best option but I don't think it's fair.

"Students suffer as supply teachers have to be brought in and the children lose continuity."

Brenda Wignall, 67, also from Ashton, backed the strike, saying: "With the prices of everything going up, people want more money.

"Just because teachers serve the public doesn't mean they are not entitled to strike for pay."

Stuart Pomfret, 49, of Ashton, agreed, saying: "They need more money just like everybody else.

"If I was a teacher I would be going on strike."

But Laura Fowler, 22, of Lea, said: "I don't think they should strike. If they chose to do that job they should do that job, no matter what they're paid."

Ashton resident Natalie Crowe, 21, said: "I think some teachers do deserve a bit more money, depending on how much responsibility they have."

Patrick Deehan, 77, also of Ashton, said: "I think it's a hard job. I'm hoping it's a one-off thing and not something that's going to go on every month, but I don't agree with closing the schools."

Mary Deehan, 72, from Ashton, said: "I think they should strike. With kids today, I wouldn't even work in a school. Teachers do a very good job."

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