Deal 'could stop strikes'

Operations were cancelled during the one-day strike

Unions at two hospitals have said a new deal offered by management could avert future strike action.

Staff employed by Wirral Hospitals Trust at Arrowe Park Hospital and Clatterbridge Hospitals have already staged one 24-hour strike.

They are demanding pay parity for people doing the same jobs.

But officials from the Unison, TGWU and GMB unions described Monday's offer as an "agreeable deal".

Staff held a one-day strike in December, forcing the cancellation of more than 100 operations.

They cancelled a second walkout after the two sides held talks.

The workers affected by the dispute are porters, domestics, catering and clerical staff and auxiliary nurses.

The new offer will now be put to union members.