Unite has confirmed it has suspended further strike action on an Isle of Wight ferry route, after what it calls an 'improved offer' from Red Funnel.

The pause will allow members of the union who work for the cross-Solent firm to vote on the deal.

Unite the Union told the Isle of Wight County Press around 120 people, who work as customer service staff, shunters and ratings, would return to work as normal during the ballot. 

If the deal is rejected, further strike action will be scheduled. 

Earlier, Red Funnel's chief executive, Fran Collins, said: "As a lifeline service, it has been essential that we considered the sustainability of the business throughout our discussions, during a period of rising fuel costs and the post-pandemic recovery.

"We are fully committed to doing all we can to ensure maximum travel choice and connectivity for island residents, visitors and businesses, promoting the long-term success of the Island economy."

Unite argues staff carry out sea training and are responsible for passenger safety, says Isle of Wight employees are often away from home for days at time and are only paid the hours they work onboard the ferry, with no overnight subsidies provided, for food or other expenses.

Plans for strike action tomorrow (Tuesday, August 23) and on Friday, August 26 and Monday, August 29, have been suspended, which means Red Funnel ferries between Southampton and the Isle of Wight, including the hard-hit vehicle ferry route to East Cowes, will run as scheduled.