Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers working for Wynnstay Agricultural Supplies Limited have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action to oppose ‘draconian’ changes to their terms and conditions.

A ballot of HGV drivers working from both the Llansantffraid and Carmarthen depots delivered an 82 per cent result in favour of industrial action.

The result means a 24-hour strike will begin on Monday, March 2.

Wynnstay has imposed dramatic changes to the pay structure of its HGV drivers, which is resulting in an earnings drop of up to 25 per cent.

The changes will also mean an increase in contractual hours, despite no agreement with the workforce.

Jo Goodchild, Unite regional officer, said: “The changes to our members’ contracts and the effect on their earnings are completely unacceptable.

“The actions of Wynnstay have resulted in a lot of anger among the HGV drivers affected and this is reflected in the overwhelming vote by the drivers to take industrial action.

“Our members feel that they have not been listened to and [been] left with no choice but to strike.

“The company’s actions are misjudged and fail to reflect the dedication and commitment of its loyal workforce.

“Wynnstay need to take stock and think very carefully upon what its workforce is saying to it. If these changes are not reversed then a sustained period of industrial action lies ahead.”

A spokesman for Wynnstay said: “Wynnstay confirms that it continues in discussions with its drivers, and endeavours to proceed constructively and productively so that an acceptable agreement can be reached.”