THE Unite union says it has secured a substantial payrise for staff at an Inverclyde engineering firm.

Gourock based James Walker Devol workers are set to receive up to 12.5 per cent pay rise after a deal was struck.

Around 100 engineers who are responsible for manufacturing components for the construction, oil, gas and railway sectors around the globe will benefit.

All workers will receive a £2,500 annual pay uplift.

There are also further improvements to the jobs, pay and conditions of Devol workers including a five per cent allowance increase and enhanced holiday working rates.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “The Devol workforce overwhelmingly backed this pay deal negotiated by Unite.

"It will mean an increase in pay of £2,500 this year, which is significant in these times.

"This is exactly why the workers voted to have trade union recognition.

"That has paid off at Devol with this significant wage increase.”

Last November, the workforce at the plant in Faulds Park had voted to support trade union recognition and for Unite represent them in negotiations over jobs, pay and conditions.

READ MORE: Union recognition for Gourock's James Walker Devol plant workers

Pat McIlvogue, Unite industrial officer, said: “Last year the James Walker Devol workforce had no trade union formally representing them in pay negotiations with the company.

"Fast forward eight months, and now around 100 members have secured a pay deal worth up to 12.5 per cent, which is a significant boost to their pay packets.

"The deal importantly highlights the benefits of a workplace with trade union recognition.”