COUNCIL bosses have been accused of ‘taking a pickaxe’ to Bradford’s libraries and museums.

The claim comes from the union Unite whose members are today due to be in the final day of a three-day strike.

The union are protesting at “swingeing” cuts to the budget of the service, which runs Keighley Library and Cliffe Castle Museum.

The union this week claimed that the council was attacking the educational and social opportunities that the district’s 14 libraries and museums offer.

Unite regional officer Mark Martin said: “Our members have been buoyed up by the strong support shown by the public.”

Bradford Council has expressed disappointment at the strike decision, saying Unite representatives had turned down a number of invites to present their concerns.

“We believe Unite would be better served working with us, offering views on what can be done to achieve the savings required in the face of prolonged government cuts and helping shape the future of our service.”

Unite, which held its first strike last month, plans more stoppages on November 18-21 and December 2-6.