UNISON workers across Scotland’s councils have overwhelmingly voted to accept a new two-year pay deal.

Members voted 83 per cent in favour of a package agreed with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (Cosla), delivering a 4 per cent increase this year and 3.5 in the next.

Unison Scotland’s local government committee chairwoman Suzanne Gens said: “This pay deal is a crucial step in turning round cuts to council staff pay.

“It gives local government workers some financial security now they know their pay will be higher than inflation over the next couple of years.

“This has only been achieved because of the determination of council workers to demand better.”

The union’s co-lead for local government David O’Connor warned there was “no room for complacency," adding: “Local government has suffered over a decade of cuts.

“Our campaign to protect council services continues.”

SNP finance secretary Shona Robison said: “I would urge members of Unite and GMB to join Unison members in recognising the clear benefit of this offer so that all workers can get the pay they deserve without delay.”