MAINTENANCE workers at Royal Preston Hospital and Sharoe Green have voted to go on strike over pay.

The walk-outs, on Monday, February 16, could have repercussions for patients and staff as the workers are responsible for day-to-day running of boilers, lighting, generators and servicing theatres.

About 40 voted in favour of the action after their demands to be upgraded from craftsmen to technicians were turned down.

Along with a ban on overtime and call-outs, the workers say they plan to walk out every Monday, until a settlement has been agreed.

Pat Oregon, Amicus regional union officer, said: "Regrettably, we have failed to agree on a solution during talks.

"Many of our members feel that NHS funds are being channelled into providing pay rises for nurses and clinical staff and we are just seen as rubbing rags.

"We are hoping to reach an amicable agreement when we meet up with trust bosses on February 10."

Maintenance workers are currently paid £16,000 but if they were upgraded to technical grades, their pay would increase to £18,000.

They will continue to answer emergency calls during the strike.

Ian Cox, director of facilities and services at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals said: "We are currently in discussions with the unions regarding a settlement. We do have contingency plans in place to minimise disruption if a strike take places."