Stones defy French roadies' strike

The Stones are undertaking a sell-out world tour

The Rolling Stones have called in volunteers to save a major Paris concert threatened by a French arts workers' strike.

Ninety road crew members responsible for loading stage, lighting and sound equipment have stopped work in solidarity with French colleagues.

The workers are protesting about government plans to overhaul their benefits.

The Stones held the first of three Paris concerts on Monday, and are to play to 60,000 people in the Stade de France football stadium on Wednesday.

Road crew stopped work after Monday's concert at the Bercy stadium.

They have been replaced by the Stones' own team, volunteer staff, secretaries, assistants and security personnel.

Jackie Lombard, who is in charge of the French tour, said Wednesday's show "will go ahead whatever".

A third Paris concert will be held at the Olympia concert hall on Friday.