TILE factory workers have taken to the picket line in a stike over what they call a "miserly" pay rise.

Workers at Beenham's Marley tiles factory, in West Berkshire, who are part of the GMB Union are striking after the company offered them a one per cent pay rise.

The union said the company reportedly made £16 million in profits last year.

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Members are striking today after 96 per cent of GMB members voted in favour of action.

Marley Ltd is a roof tile manufacturer based in Beenham, outside Reading currently employing around 60 staff.

The strike is expected to last for 48 hours.

People can be seen holding and waving black and orange GMB flags standing outside the factory on Grange Lane.

GMB has accused the company of Dickensian work practices which fail to give workers their fair share.

Nikki Dancey, GMB regional organiser said: “This miserly deal does not reflect any of the hard work our members have done this year, despite the company pocketing profits of over £16million.

“Though Marley workers normally receive their annual pay raise in January, industrial relations between the workers and Marley have been in virtual collapse through this year, and to date, the workers have received nothing."

Helen Caney, GMB Reading Branch Secretary: “The company has really left us no option other than to strike really.

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“Earlier this year, our members had to fight against an extremely unpopular proposal to change their pay, terms and conditions which has strained industrial relations to a point where they’re on life support."

A spokesperson for Marley said: "Despite our attempts to negotiate with employees in the current economic climate, it is unfortunate that our colleagues at Beenham decided to pursue industrial action."