FACTORY workers in Bridgwater are out in force striking over 'unfair' pay.

Around 65 people will be outside Trelleborg Sealing Solutions Bridgwater, Dunball Industrial Estate, from 6am until 10pm today.

Following a ballot, Unite members voted in favour of three days of strike action to force their employer back to the negotiating table following a row over pay.

Other strikes are due to take place on Friday, May 31 and Wednesday, June 5.

Dave Chapple, Bridgwater TUC Secretary, said: "A first-ever factory strike is always an indication that something has gone radically wrong with the way a firm is being managed.

"There is no question that this factory is profitable, and there is no question that Trelleborg workers are highly productive.

"Therefore, why is there a big question over Trelleborg respecting Unite the Union, that represents the majority of workers, and conceding a pay rise they can easily afford?"

Mr Chapple highlighted that Trelleborg, and its previous incarnations as Wills Industrial Polymers and Wills Engineering, has a 100-year-history in Bridgwater.

"Bridgwater Trades Union Council calls upon all Bridgwater unionised workplaces to send delegations to the Unite the Union Trelleborg picket line next Tuesday," Mr Chapple said.

Bridgwater Mercury:

According to Trelleborg bosses, the pay increase on offer is 'fair and reasonable', but says it is open to discussions.

A spokesman for Trelleborg said: "Trelleborg believe that our offer for a 2019 pay increase of 2.8 per cent is fair, reasonable, and above inflation. We are sorry that the union intends to strike.

"The company is disappointed that the most recent talks were not successful, despite a range of constructive offers for discussion being tabled by Trelleborg. Nevertheless the company remains open to further discussions.

"Productivity has decreased in recent years at the Bridgwater factory, and increased factory output has been achieved through the addition of many jobs at the facility.

"Trelleborg believes that employees’ pay has kept pace with inflation over the last decade and that our rates of pay, employee benefits and working environment compare favourably with other employers in the area.

"The offer of a 2.8 per cent increase, backdated to January 1st 2019, remains open.

"We hope that the union are willing to further discuss matters and that strike action can be averted."