WORKERS in Somerset are set to strike against a below-inflation pay offer and the “intransigence” of their managers that led to talks hitting a “brick wall.”

Workers producing engine seals at Trelleborg Sealing Solutions in Bridgwater will strike for three days late this month and early June.

The 65 workers, who are Unite members, overwhelmingly rejected a 2.8 per cent pay offer that would start in January of this year.

They say that the small overture is out of step with their workplace productivity, which they claim has greatly expanded.

Management has also conceded the rise in productivity in negotiations, but says it has been unable to produce a pay increase that keeps pace with inflation.

Unite regional officer Tim Morris said: “Recent talks with the company hit a brick wall, despite Unite presenting constructive ideas to resolve the situation.  

“The planned strikes have to be viewed in the context of this highly profitable company failing to take into account the huge increases in housing costs across Somerset.

“There is now a generous window open for the company to sit down and negotiate in a positive fashion before the first strike due on May 28.”