Someone at Edinburgh’s university strikes has made a Three Billboards sign to protest against pensions cuts

UCU strikers have taken inspiration from the new BAFTA award-winning film Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, to protest against proposed pension cuts by Universities UK.

The signs were spotted at the UCU Rally of Support, organised by Edinburgh Students in Solidarity with UCU along with EUSA, which took place at Bristo Square earlier today.

The rally saw a huge turnout, with people booing at the mention of principal Peter Mathieson, and shouts of "disgusting" in regards to his £342,000 salary – which received an £80,000 increase compared to the wage of his predecessor, Timothy O’Shea.

Ann Henderson, the trade-unionist and equality campaigner, who is currently running to be Edinburgh's second ever female rector, also gave a rousing speech.

The signs, similar to those used by Grenfell activists in London last week, read: "Principal gets 33% pay hike," "and our pensions cut?" "How come, University of Edinburgh?"

Although strikes have been taking place at universities around the country since last week, today marks the first day of Edinburgh's protests due to the Festival of Creative Learning.

Staff are due to strike on the following dates:

Week 1: Monday 26th, Tuesday 27th, Wednesday 28th February (three days)

Week 2: Monday 5th, Tuesday 6th, Wednesday 7th, Friday 9th March (four days)

Week 3: Monday 12th-Friday 16th March (whole week)

Week 4: Monday 19th and Tuesday 20th March (two days).