JUNIOR doctors took time out to speak to shoppers in the city centre on Saturday about next week’s strikes.

They spoke to people in Cornmarket Street, urging them to support their national walkout on December 1.

The decision to strike comes after doctors complained that a new contract proposed by the Government would see them work “unsociable” long hours.

Nicky Goodfellow, who works at the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, said: “I was blown away by the positive reaction that we had from people. It was overwhelming and very reassuring that the message is getting out and people are not fooled by the Government’s spin.”

One of those campaigning in Oxford, Dr Rachel Clarke, bought her four-year-old daughter Abbie along for the protest.

Dr Clarke said: “We are here today because the Government has been spinning this story to make it about pay, about money, but that is not what the issue is about.

“We are opposed to this contract because it is unsafe and dangerous for our patients. I am striking because it is my duty as a doctor to look after the patients I help.”

As well as talking to passers-by the group also handed out badges and balloons to attract more attention to the contract issue.

Further industrial action is planned for December 8 and December 16.