However, the union said that it was disappointed by the voting turnout across its 12 sites in response to a nationwide pay freeze, which was announced last November.

A total of 436 returns were received, around 40% of members, when balloting concluded last Thursday (27 August). According to Unite national officer Steve Sibbald, the figure was "disappointing".

Unite is now in discussion with representatives at the 12 facilities about how it will proceed. It has 28 days to take action.

Sibbald said: "Hopefully before we embark on industrial action we will sit down for discussions with the company."

Industrial action short of a strike could involve a number of situations, including working to rule, an overtime ban and a go slow.

Trinity Mirror was unavailable for comment at this point in time.