Factory workers plan 18 more strikes in pay row

James Walker in Cockermouth produces sealing products for industry

Factory workers involved in a pay dispute plan more strikes over a three-month period after receiving what their union called an "insulting" offer.

Unite said more than 250 workers at James Walker in Cockermouth, Cumbria, would strike over 18 dates in November, December and January after rejecting the latest proposals.

James Walker has been approached for comment. A spokesperson previously said it had made a "fair and reasonable" offer.

The dispute at the factory, which produces sealing products for industry, began in September.

The latest offer of 3% and additional one-off holidays was refused by workers, Unite said.

General secretary Sharon Graham said: "James Walker is crying poverty but can clearly afford to pay our hardworking members, who do a very specialised job, more than this insulting offer which equates to a real-terms pay cut."

A James Walker spokesperson previously said the company was open to consultation and hoped to maintain "constructive dialogue" in order to resolve the issues with the union and its members.