BIN men covering Sandwell have called off industrial action after securing a pay rise.

The GMB Union said it had been called off after Serco committed to making the tip site in Oldbury 'safe for the public'.

It said the deal also included a pay rise for bin men and moving many agency workers onto permanent contracts.

The long-running strike at Serco Sandwell involved more than 130 refuse workers.

More than 90 per cent of workers voted to accept the firm’s offer to make the Shidas Lane site safe.

Serco has assured workers that bullying and harassment will not be tolerated in any form and will be dealt with in a timely manner.

Justine Jones, GMB Organiser said: “This is a stunning victory for the public and for our members.

“We’ve won the fight to keep people safe and secured new permanent jobs just in time for Christmas – all whilst avoiding disruption in the festive period."

Katy Bassett, Regional Director for Serco Environmental Services said: “We are pleased that the GMB have agreed to call an end to this industrial action.

"Recent discussions with the unions have been productive, we have reach a pay settlement as well as collectively agreeing to conduct a benchmarking and operational efficiently exercise, for the benefit of our staff and residents.

“Thanks to the people of Sandwell for their hearty support and to the workers who stood firm for each other."