Originally, the firm refused to negotiate a voluntary recognition agreement with the union, despite more than half of its staff being members.

Amicus head of organising Bernard Rutter said: “This case should have been settled without a hearing given the high level of membership.

“We hope the company will now work with Amicus to negotiate a proper recognition agreement.”

The CAC awarded recognition without a ballot and both parties are due to meet before 21 May 2007.

Gask & Hawley declined to comment on the ruling.