WORKERS have reacted positively to the improved redundancy packages on offer at a firm supplying Vauxhall Motors.

Staff at TDS Automotive Logistics in Ellesmere Port have backed the revised deal struck by trade unions following lengthy negotiations with the company last week.

And they reckon the two wildcat strikes they held at the end of June to register their disgust over the original redundancy offer played a part in TDS increasing the terms.

One of the workers involved in the strike action said: 'The packages are much more reasonable when you consider the original offer. It's very positive.

'Morale has been really bad following the announcement over the job losses and the first redundancy offer but the atmosphere is a lot better now.

'Everyone is much happier and it looks as though the strikes made a difference. I think the company expected us to just stand off.

'Quite a few people have shown an interest in the packages and I'm considering my future at the moment.'

TDS, which supplies bumpers and accessories for the Astra, is seeking 198 voluntary redundancies out of a workforce of 553 after feeling the knock-on effect of the 900 jobs axed at the Vauxhall plant in May.

The new packages on offer will see staff with less than two years service receive £2,750 while those who have worked at the plant for nine years or more will be entitled to £11,000.

Employees have until the end of the week to apply for voluntary redundancy and be considered for the first leaving date on Friday, July 21.

A further meeting between trade unions and TDS will take place on Wednesday, August 16.