Workers from Lapett Manufacturing held their first day of strikes today amid a dispute over 'pay and targets'.

Dozens of workers were on the picket line just off Junction Street in Carlisle on Wednesday in a first for the GMB Union members.

They weave high-end headscarves which are sold to the Saudi Arabian market. The work involves intricate sewing and quality control, and the union said staff need to have years of experience to meet the required standards.

They will walk out for a further 11 days over the next month on the following dates:

  • October 31
  • November 2 and 3
  • November 6 and 7
  • November 9 and 10
  • November 13 and 14
  • November 16 and 17