MAINTENANCE and engineering staff on East Midlands trains look set to start a week-long strike over pay from Sunday.

The strike involves 80 Unite members who started an overtime ban in July.

East Midlands has withdrawn a 2.75 per cent pay offer and last-ditch talks take place tomorrow.

“Our members have a right to have their legitimate grievances recognised and we hope that the company will come to the table ready to agree a fair pay deal for its loyal workforce,” said Unite regional officer Kevin Hepworth.

“Unite will enter Friday’s talks with the aim of settling this long running dispute in the best interests of our members.

“Many working people can relate to feeling undervalued at work, these members have collectively agreed to take a stand and their union fully supports them.

“We welcome Friday’s talks with management and will work hard to secure a fair and equitable pay deal for our members.”