THE Unite union has won formal recognition at a Midlands food factory after workers raised fears over Covid-19 infection.

The workers, employed at chicken factory Noble Foods Ltd in Gainsborough in Lincolnshire, raised concerns over the factory’s air conduction system which they feared might spread the Covid-19 virus. They joined Unite, which took up the issue with management.

Recognition of the union was initially resisted by management, Unite said. But the company has now formally recognised the union.

Unite regional officer Steve Syson said that “hundreds” of workers at the site had joined the union after its officers intervened over their safety.

Unite East Midlands regional secretary Paresh Patel said: “The excellent team effort from the regional officer and the organisers alongside the workforce shows the importance and relevance of Unite during the current pandemic, ensuring that workers’ safety, welfare and job protection are at the heart of our fight for our members.”