The majority of Somerset County Council’s services continued as usual today despite a national one-day strike by unions.

At 11am it was recorded that 364 workers were absent due to the industrial action, which represents 7 per cent of the overall workforce of 5,020.

Cllr Anna Groskop, Somerset County Council’s Cabinet Member for HR and Transformation, said: “I’m pleased to see that most essential council services were able to continue as normal today with the vast majority of staff coming into work.

“Some of our services were reduced but most were able to remain open. We apologise to anyone who was affected but hope the public can understand the reasons why.”

Bridgwater, Wiveliscombe, Taunton and Priorswood Libraries were closed for the day with Glastonbury Library closed from midday. All other libraries, except Taunton Mobile Library, were due to provide services as usual.

The Museum of Somerset was also fully open. Day centres for people with learning disabilities were closed with many staff redeployed to help individuals with their care needs.

Of the schools which notified Somerset County Council of their position, 17 were open, 12 were fully closed and 11 were partially closed.