PUBLIC sector union leader Dave Prentis has written to every local government member in England, Wales and Scotland urging them to vote yes in the pension strike ballot.

The first proposed strike day is scheduled for March 23.

Mr Prentis, leader of Unison, wrote: "This union only considers taking strike action as a last resort.

"But the Government's unprecedented attack on the local government pension scheme is not only unjust, it also strikes at the heart of the pay and conditions of our members.

"Unison strongly believes that every member, regardless of their job, deserves dignity in retirement.

That is why it is so important that we now defend the pension scheme.

"I appreciate what a difficult decision this will be for many of you but I would urge you to vote for action to defend yourself and your colleagues from this attack."

Changes in the law mean that from April 1 people retiring before the age of 65 could face benefit cuts.

Bob Cretchley, unison representative at Swindon council, has said workers there are very angry about the planned changes to their pensions.