A strike by meat inspectors has been called off after a pay deal was struck.

Unison had announced that up to 1,000 of its members would walk out on December 2, 3 and 4, which could have scuppered Christmas dinners by disrupting meat and poultry supplies.

But the union said later it was calling off the action following an agreement on pay, and to allow further talks on changes to work patterns.

National officer Simon Watson said: "Taking strike action is always a last resort and today's agreement will give breathing space for further talks and, at the same time, put money into the pockets of our members.

"Meat hygiene inspectors will get a long overdue rise of 2.99 per cent, backdated to August 2007, in the New Year, in time to help with the post-Christmas bills.

"We still have some tough talking to do over the 'work any time' proposals and members have a right to expect movement on their 2008 pay rise. However, today's agreement with the Meat Hygiene Service signals a willingness to reach a negotiated agreement."

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