GMB members at paint supplier AkzoNobel in Gateshead have downed tools for a sixth day of industrial action today in a dispute over pay.

Workers at the site have overwhelmingly rejected a below inflation pay deal of 4.8 per cent.

Stephen Thompkins, GMB Senior Organiser, said: 

 “These workers are crucial to the success of the company, so it's time management got real and started to negotiate meaningfully on pay.

 “This action will cause disruption to the country’s paint supply, but it is in the hands of the company to resolve this dispute.

 “GMB members will stand strong and continue to do so until they get the deal they deserve.”