THREE Bury firefighters carpeted over a sleeping row while on duty are to appeal against their punishments next month.

Firemen Keith Hadley and Dave Adamson received written warnings after being found guilty of using "unauthorised resting facilities" at The Rock station. The pair used gym mats on the floor of the station during a 15-hour nightshift instead of approved recliner chairs.

Their watch commander Steve Wilcock was given a final written warning, active for 18 months, for failing to police the proper use of the resting equipment.

Now, Mr Wilcock, Mr Hadley and Mr Adamson will appeal to the boss of the fire service, County Fire Officer Barry Dixon, at a special appeal hearing on August 7 in an effort to overturn their punishments.

All three men are expected to be represented by Fire Brigades Union officials.