MANCHESTER construction workers stayed out on unofficial strike for a second day yesterday over their bosses’ alleged withholding of wages.

The workers, contracted by construction firm Dawnus, walked out from the Regent Road roadworks between Salford and Manchester on Tuesday.

They drove several diggers and a lorry into the arterial route at rush hour, telling passers-by that they had not been paid.

Although a police warning forced the workers to move the equipment onto a nearby piece of land, they were not in use yesterday and work on the job remained at a standstill.

A Manchester City Council spokesperson said the authority was working on an alternative plan to finish the roadworks, which are near completion.

The spokesperson added that the council was in contact with all affected parties and seeking a solution for the unpaid workers.

Dawnus has not responded to the Star’s repeated requests for comment.