Postal workers have voted to hold their first nationwide strike in more than a decade.

Postal workers have voted to hold their first nationwide strike in more than a decade.

Members of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) yesterday voted almost four to one in favour of industrial action over pay.

The Royal Mail has offered a 2.5% pay rise, while the CWU is holding out for a 4.8% increase.

A series of walkouts will now be held by up to 130,000 CWU members unless a compromise is reached.

CWU deputy general secretary, Dave Ward, said: “This yes vote shows clearly that Royal Mail workers have rejected the company’s business plan, the company’s leadership and the unacceptable pay offer.

“Royal Mail leaders say they listen to people; this is the clearest message they have ever had. Royal Mail has to listen and return to serious negotiations.”