Workers at two national chains with branches in Newtown are set to walk out in a series of strikes over working conditions today.

Employees at branches of McDonalds, Wetherspoons and several other chains will down tools in the so-called "McStrike", campaigning for better working conditions across the hospitality sector, pay of £10 an hour and an end to what they describe as "precarious" contracts.

A demonstration is planned in London today, while in Mid-Wales a solidarity demonstration will take place in Aberystwyth.

However the outlets in Newtown are not listed as being part of the action, which will mostly be centred on larger cities in England and Scotland. JD Wetherspoons' "Black Boy" pub in Newtown declined to confirm or deny whether any of their staff had walked out as part of the action.

The pub chain’s chairman, Tim Martin, said: "It is understandable that there is pressure on pay with low unemployment and a housing shortage. However, bonuses, free shares and other benefits should be taken into account in assessing pay. I don’t think it would benefit employees overall if, as some suggest, Wetherspoon ended bonuses, free shares and other benefits, and increased the basic rate of pay.

"It’s easy to be cynical about business, but companies like McDonald’s, TGI Fridays and thousands of other individuals and businesses make a big contribution to the economy and provide valuable work and experience for many people."

A statement from general workers union Unite said hospitality workers were "finding their voice" through the action.

"These workers have had enough of low pay and insecure work. They will not stand by and let their bosses pocket their tips nor cheat them out of money they’re rightfully owed," said Unite national officer Rhys McCarthy.

"They are demanding not only respect but better pay and union rights, because they know that by standing together they can win.

"These young workers are leading a growing movement against low pay and insecure work in the hospitality sector and across the gig economy. Unite stands right by their side."

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's today programme, TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said the strikes were small, but growing.

"Very often, young workers are frightened, especially if they are on zero-hours contracts or sham self-employment, that they won’t get offered shifts if they do join up. We are also seeing among young people a sense that they have nothing to lose."