TRADE unionists in Bolton are urging public-sector workers to reject a Government offer of a pay increase.

Leaders of the Bolton branch of Unison, which represents council and school workers, will consult members about the offer of a 2.2-per-cent boost in wages - up from the one-per-cent previously offered.

Matt Kilsby, chairman of Bolton Unison, said: "The new pay proposals include a lump sum which will not be consolidated within council and school workers' pay.

"The offer of a 2.2-per-cent increase is for the 2014 and 2015 pay years - a mere 0.19-per-cent increase on what members have already voted to reject.

"In our opinion, the employers will continue to save money on their wage bill with these proposals.

"The view of our stewards was very clear that we should reject the new offer and fight for a better deal."