CLASSES at one of the North-East's largest colleges were disrupted yesterday as a two-day strike by lecturers against possible job losses got under way.

Members of Natfhe, the university and college lecturers' union, are taking action against Newcastle College, which unions say is threatening to sack 128 staff who have refused to sign new contracts.

There was some teaching yesterday, but management at the college - the largest in the North-East, with 34,000 students - acknowledged that the industrial action had caused problems.

Peter Slee, vice-principal for human resources, said: "Although some classes have taken place, the action by Natfhe members has undoubtedly caused disruption to the education of our students which we deplore and regret."

Natfhe regional officer Iain Owens said yesterday: "It has been a good day. About 300 members have taken part.

"Natfhe members have responded positively to the decision to have two days of action and are determined to continue the campaign for good conditions of service."

Mr Owens denied claims that the action would harm students.

"Overworking teachers means that students will be damaged in any event. What we are not going to be is blackmailed about that. The college is damaging the students by looking to dismiss 128 people," he said.

The strike is expected to continue today.