WORKERS who operate lifeline ferries between the Scottish mainland and the Hebrides islands announced plans to strike at the weekend over bosses’ threats to jobs, working conditions and pensions.

A fleet of 29 ferries serves 22 islands off western Scotland, operated by Caledonian Macbrayne (Calac) on behalf of the Scottish government.

The franchise is up for grabs and disgraced firm Serco, which has been embroiled in a series of scandals, is in the running.