BIN lorry drivers in Coventry have won their fight against “rubbish” wages after being awarded a 12.9 per cent pay rise. 

The 70 HGV drivers employed by Coventry City Council, who have been striking since January 31, will go back to work after an agreement was finalised last Friday. 

As part of the deal with lorry drivers’ union Unite, disciplinary charges against shop steward Pete Randle were also dropped and employers will receive Christmas bonuses worth some £4,000. 

The union had described the charges against Mr Randle, who was suspended from his role earlier this year, as “bogus.” 

Responding to the deal, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This deal represents a fair and just pay award and all charges against our victimised rep have now been dropped.

“It is quite frankly wrong that our members were forced to take this action against a Labour council, but Unite will always back its members against any employer who refuses to negotiate.

“I am very proud of our reps and members today.”