FEARS over further strikes hitting schools and other services in Inverclyde are receding after a breakthrough in a pay-rise dispute.

Unison members took industrial action which closed schools across the district last Wednesday, the fourth day of walkouts.

Union leaders warned that any move to impose the deal on the table, which two others had signed up to, would lead to an escalation of their industrial action.

Unison now say they have negotiated a 'ground-breaking commitment' with bosses to tackle low pay across local government which should deliver above inflation increases for the lowest paid workers for at least the next three years.

The union will put this new pay offer to their members with the recommendation that they vote to accept it.