Council workers gathered in Falcon Square in Inverness

As one green balloon dropped to the pavement, Unison's North regional organiser Ken Matthews said: "Look, it's just like our sinking pensions."

Industrial action involving about 5,000 workers affected refuse collections and closed offices.

It also impacted on schools, burials and ferry services.

The biggest demonstration in the Highlands was staged in Falcon Square in Inverness.

Workers and union members huddled under umbrellas in the rain before releasing green, white and purple balloons.

'Fat cat'

Mr Matthews, Unison regional organiser for the Highlands and Western Isles, warned that there would be a further day of action if the row was not resolved to the staff's satisfaction.

He said: "The initial response we are getting from the public is really wonderful.

"Members of the public have been coming up with cups of coffee and appreciate that local government workers are not asking for fat cat pensions.

"We are aware of the impact the strike is having on the public and for that we apologise. We have taken this action as a last resort."

He added: "This is a contributory pension scheme and is the workers' own money."

Aderyn Coull and Gerry Reynolds outside Inverness Town House

The Western Isles' biggest school, Stornoway's Nicolson Institute, and Laxdale Primary were closed.

Sgoil Lionacleit was only open for fourth, fifth and sixth year pupils.

In the Highlands many secondaries were open to senior pupils only.

Twenty of 37 service points in the Highland Council area were closed along with many council offices.

The Corran Ferry between south Lochaber and Ardgour did not run, or ferries at Rothesay and Dunoon.