Drivers at a logistics firm have announced they will postpone strike action which could have delayed delivery of new car models.

Some 26 workers at GB Terminals (Southern) Ltd, who are based at the Port of Sheerness, were due to walk out for the first time for 24 hours tomorrow.

The Unite union members, who drive vehicles off ferries arriving in Sheerness and park them before they are moved to a car transporter, were due to take industrial action over a pay dispute.

The firm refused to agree a pay increase in line with inflation and sought to introduce a freeze.

But the union announced the first walk-out has been postponed so talks can begin mediated by the conciliation service, Acas.

Regional Unite officer, Philip Silkstone said: "This is positive news for our members and we hope that this dispute can be resolved without disruption.

"Our members' demands are far from unreasonable and we urge GB Terminals to come to the Acas talks with a sensible offer that our members can accept.

"This is positive news for our members and we hope that this dispute can be resolved..." - Philip Silkstone

"If the talks do fail, however, strike action over the coming weeks will go ahead as planned."

Should the talks fail, the members are planning 24-hour walkouts on January 17, 24, 31 and February 7 and 14.

A further two 48-hour strikes will take place on February 20 and 27 in addition to a four-day strike beginning on Monday, March 9.

It could mean new model Audi, Porsche, Skoda and Volkswagen vehicles are delayed.

Read more: All the latest news from the Isle of Sheppey

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