OXFORD University facilities workers will be represented by Unite after the union won a formal recognition agreement with a management firm.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This excellent win comes after a lot of hard work and determined organising by our reps and officials at EMCOR UK.

“It is a crucial step forward, which will help improve jobs, pay and conditions for staff at the company.”

The recognition agreement, overwhelmingly backed by 100 per cent of Unite members on the contract, follows 18 months of sustained efforts by the union to secure a formal voice for employees at the firm.

Unite regional officer Nick Owen said: “This success is a direct result of the dedication of our Unite workplace reps who have worked tirelessly to show the value of union representation.

“It is a significant milestone, and we now look forward to negotiating the best possible outcomes for our members at EMCOR.”