Factory workers planning strike

Workers have rejected a one per cent pay offer

Around 400 workers at one of Hereford's major employers are preparing for a seven-day walkout.

Member of the GMB union at Special Metals Wiggin are planning to strike from 19 February.

GMB officials have rejected the company's offer of a one per cent pay rise, and are demanding three per cent.

But managers at the Holmer Road plant, where nickel alloys are produced, say their pay offer is based on a downturn in orders and losses approaching £500,000.

'Better offer'

Senior shop steward at the plant Phil Cogzell said there was still time for the strike to be averted.

"The negotiating team have said to the company they are prepared to go back at any time to discuss it," he said.

"So we are waiting for the company to come back with a better offer."

If a compromise is not reached, the strike will affect around half of the company's Hereford workforce.