Workers from four unions at Aberystwyth University will strike today over savage cuts to pensions.

Union activists at the institution called on managers yesterday to back down over changes they say treat low-paid workers “like second-class citizens.”

In an open letter ahead of the four-day walk out, members of university unions Unite, Unison and Prospect said there was still time to talk.

Unison organiser Simon Dunn said the action would coincide with the start of the academic year, but that student union activists had been supportive.

“These pension cuts hit the lowest-paid members of staff at the university,” he said.

“The changes are unfair and will leave many of our members facing poverty in their retirement.

“All we have asked for throughout our discussions is a level playing field for our members, but the university is refusing to reconsider.

“We will continue to try to get the university back around the table on this issue, as it is clear that our members are not prepared to take this issue lying down and will continue to fight for a fair pension.”

Striking workers and their supporters will rally on Saturday to raise morale and awareness of the dispute. 

Demonstrators will leave Aberystwyth train station at 10.30am and march to Penglais Hill.