WORKERS at a Preston sofa firm have voted to support the GMB over the firm's decision not to reinstate a sacked employee.

The results of a ballot showed that while most of Tetrad plc's union members favoured 'some type of action' they were not prepared to strike over the sacking of the unnamed employee three weeks ago.

Union officials met with shop stewards at the Swan Street firm on Tuesday to discuss the case for action in relation to the unnamed production operative, who was dismissed on the grounds of gross insubordination.

GMB senior organiser Paul Hoggarth said: "The ballot showed a successful majority in favour of action short of a strike.

"But, as a result of that and following a meeting with shop stewards, the union has decided that the case be referred to an employment tribunal."

It comes after bosses at the firm opted to uphold a decision not to reinstate the sacked employee, who is believed to have worked for the company for six years.

Tetrad plc was founded 35 years ago and is now the largest manufacturer of upholstered furniture in the UK and a major employer in the area.

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