METROLINK workers could be set to go on strike as voting starts on industrial action tomorrow in a dispute over "substandard" pay.

If approved the action could see drivers across the network strike during the August bank holiday weekend — when Manchester Pride is scheduled to take place.

The ballot will close on August 9 and has been prompted, unions say, over pay levels that see tram drivers earning up to £7,000 less per year than counterparts doing the same job in other cities.

Unite, the UK's largest trade union, is urging Metrolink bosses to table a revised offer during talks next week.

Unite regional officer Steve Davies said: “Greater Manchester Metrolink tram drivers put up with a lot in keeping Manchester on the move. We have seen increased anti-social behaviour and violence directed at drivers and shockingly bricks thrown at drivers’ cabs.

“Metrolink drivers have decided enough is enough. Our members feel its time their hard work is valued with fair pay and a pay deal that addresses pay levels which sees them earn up to £7,000 less than tram drivers in other UK cities for doing the same job.

“Our members are aware of the disruption that a potential strike could have over Manchester’s Pride weekend. We would urge Metrolink bosses to use the window of opportunity that talks next week provide and table a revised pay offer that better meets the aspirations of our members.”

KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM), who operate and maintain Metrolink for Transport for Greater Manchester, say that they have offered to increase unsociable hours payment for drivers from £1 per hour to 10 per cent on top of pay for hours worked between 10pm and 6am.

Chris Jackson, Service Delivery Director KAM, said: “We have made a fair offer of a 3.3 per cent pay increase and better pay for unsociable hours worked, an offer that has been accepted by all other KAM employees.

“Our priority now is to continue with meaningful discussion in a genuine attempt to find a resolution. Our pay offer remains available for Unite’s driver representatives to accept on behalf of its members.”

TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, Danny Vaughan, said: “TfGM has been informed that KAM and Unite have unfortunately failed to reach an agreement following their discussions and we understand members are being balloted over strike action.

“Whilst this is disappointing, talks are continuing and we’d encourage Unite and KAM to continue these discussions with a view to finding a mutually acceptable solution.”

“I must stress the outcome of the ballot is not known, so any talk of potential dates is extremely premature.”