MORE strikes over pay are set to hit refuse collection as workers warn that they are relying on benefits and foodbanks to make ends meet.

GMB members in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead will walk out on August 31, the union announced today.

The outsourced staff, employed by giant contractor Serco, “don’t plan to return to work until they are offered a decent pay rise,” the GMB said. 

A significantly below-inflation offer of just 6 per cent has already been rejected by members. 

Regional officer Nikki Dancey said: “This is one of the most expensive areas in the country to live and this pay offer neither reflects that nor the current rate of inflation or the attached cost-of-living crisis.

“There is still time though for Serco to avoid any inconvenience to local residents, who, of course, may include the Queen, by tabling a sensible pay offer.”

The firm has been contacted for comment. 

GMB refuse collectors have taken more than 100 days of industrial action in recent months over wages, mainly across southern England.