A bin workers' strike has been called off at the last minute after an eleventh hour deal was reached.

The GMB union has pulled the walk-outs planned in Ashford just days before they were due to take place after an improved pay offer, despite saying it could have been better.

The union, which represents refuse and recycling workers across the country, claimed waste company Biffa was refusing to enter negotiations over a pay rise "to bring workers in line with colleagues in neighbouring boroughs".

GMB was asking for £15 per hour for loaders and £20 per hour for HGV drivers, which it described as the "minimum standard" that any such worker should receive in 2023.

Strikes were due to begin on Monday and last for two weeks, with bosses at the union warning the borough could face a similar situation seen in Wealden, East Sussex, where disputes over pay devolved into a full-scale strike that lasted for more than six weeks.

However, they have now been called off after members accepted a pay deal which will see drivers collect back pay of almost £2,500 and loaders over £1,000 in addition to commitments on future pay rises.

Frank Macklin, GMB regional organiser, said: “Our members have accepted the offer, but GMB actually thinks they could have won more by taking action, so no doubt the company is delighted at the news that the strike has been called off.

“To be clear though, this is still a great result for these workers, which gives them money straight into their pockets at a time when everybody is feeling the pinch and all without taking a single day of strike action.

“These are low-paid workers who deliver a vital service to the whole community and carry out a dirty and physically very demanding job every day come rain or shine, so it is only right that this gets properly recognised by management.

“Today’s pay settlement shows the power of being in the GMB and of being an active member of that union.”

A Biffa spokesman said: "Following constructive discussions, we're pleased our offer has been accepted by the union and that strike action has been avoided."