Elmbridge and Surrey Heath bin strike called off as union accepts pay offer

Strike action was due to last until 19 August

Refuse workers in parts of Surrey have called off a strike after accepting a new pay offer.

The industrial action in Surrey Heath and Elmbridge was due to continue until 19 August.

Successful talks took place between the GMB union and Amey on Thursday.

Paul Grafton from the GMB said: "Our members have banked this improved offer and will return to providing the excellent service that their hard work delivers for residents."

Kerbside collections will now resume from Monday.

An Amey spokesperson said: "Amey is pleased to confirm that GMB have accepted their above market rate pay offer for waste collection workers in Elmbridge and Surrey Heath, bringing industrial action to a close."

Councillor Colin Dougan from Surrey Heath Borough Council said: "I'm delighted a pay settlement has been reached between Amey and the GMB and as a result the excellent collection service Surrey Heath residents are used to, will resume as normal from Monday."

Areas affected by the strike included Camberley, Cobham, Esher, Frimley, Walton-on-Thames and Weybridge.

Follow BBC South East on Facebook, on Twitter, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail].