THE threat of industrial action at Rolls-Royce in Barnoldswick has ended after workers voted to end a nine-month stand off over the company pensions crisis.

Amicus members from the company's other sites in Derby, Bristol and Glasgow also took part in the ballot, which was 54 per cent in favour of accepting an improved offer.

The company announced a £1.1billion pension fund deficit in March but has now offered to increase its contributions by £35million a year.

Rolls-Royce human resources director John Rivers said: "The pension deficit must be managed for the long-term security of the fund and its members.

"The proposal which has today been accepted achieves the right balance between increased company contributions and reductions in member benefits so that we can continue to offer an affordable and competitive defined benefit scheme."

Steve Wright, chairman of the Rolls-Royce trade union central negotiating committee, said: "Today's yes vote by the trade union members of the pension fund is the end of a long and difficult process that has seen Rolls-Royce meet many of the union's demands.

"Amicus believe that today's yes vote is a responsible solution that will provide long term stability in the scheme and guarantee our members future pensions."

Barnoldwick works convenor John Brough was unavailable for comment, but had earlier said he hoped members would accept the offer.