Hundreds of teachers have embarked upon a march through Bradford to protest against cuts to their pensions.

Members of the National Union of Teachers and the Association of Teachers and Lecturers unions gathered in the banqueting suite of Bradford City's ground Valley Parade at 10am.

There were speeches from ATL branch secretary Stuart Herdson and the NUT's Ian Murch.

Dozens of schools are partially or fully closed across the district today as members of the unions protest against changes to their pension scheme.

They have attracted some criticism because contributions to the schemes from the government are still higher than the private sector.

But Mr Herdson told the gathering: "When you consider the average pension for a teacher is £10,300 you'll understand many ATL and NUT members will be living on very little."

There were also speeches from young teachers working in schools in Bradford, then the members met outside Valley Parade to set off for Centenary Square.

Members of the University and College Union at local colleges, who are members of the same pension scheme, and the PCS, the civil service union, will add to the city centre rally, as they strike over pensions, jobs and pay.

They were already gathering mid-morning in Centenary Square, awaiting the arrival of the teachers. The march through the Bradford streets was led by a piper in full Highland dress.

The walkers set off as the skies darkened and rain threatened after a few days of glorious sunshine. The change in weather might herald troubled times as protests begin in earnest as Government cuts bite, but the marchers themselves were in high spirits.

Coun Ralph Berry, Bradford Council's executive member for children's services,attended the Valley Parade meeting and delivered a message of support sent by Council Leader Ian Greenwood.

Nationally, picket lines have been mounted outside schools, government buildings,jobcentres and courts by striking public sector workers in the biggest outbreak of industrial unrest since the coalition was formed.

Union leaders said early indications were that the 24-hour walkout was being strongly supported, forcing the closure of thousands of schools, courts and offices and disrupting government services and travel.

Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude said teachers "absolutely don't" have to strike, and should not because talks are still ongoing, with another meeting between the Government and trade unions due next week.