Workers at National Grid have voted for industrial action after a dispute over three-year below inflation pay offer.

The deal, which consisted of a pay rise of 2.5% in year one and a 2.25% increases in years two and three, was rejected by members of union Unite. Talks over employees' pay packages have been taking place since April but no resolution was found.

Michael Tuff, a regional officer at Unite, said: "Industrial action is not our preferred route - we want a negotiated settlement, but the company's position of 'no further money available' has forced our members to go down this route."

The threat of industrial action came at a time when National Grid posted half-yearly profits, which showed operating profits were up 31% on last year.

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