UNITE cancelled a strike at Veolia’s toxic waste facility in Cheshire today after securing a “marked improvement in pay” and a boost to employer pension contributions.

Workers at the Ellesmere Port facility had been due to walk out on Friday, but accepted a two-year deal including a 4 per cent pay increase in year one.

They will then receive a further increase in year two which will be the midpoint between CPI and RPI inflation rates.

Workers will also receive a 7 per cent employer contribution to their pensions.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This proves there is power in a union. Our members have won a victory that will see a marked improvement in pay and have achieved a much-deserved pension scheme that means they will be more financially secure in retirement.”

Unite is also fighting for recognition with Veolia at a refuse collection depot in Sheffield.