STRIKE action that will clash with prelim exams in Glasgow schools is looking increasingly likely to go ahead.

A ballot of janitors and cleaning staff has shown an almost unanimous appetite to walk out.

A spokesperson for Amey said the firm was "extremely disappointed" in the result of a vote by GMB Scotland members.

Should the strike go ahead, it would affect 30 secondary schools across the city in the first two weeks of December.

GMB Organiser John Slaven said: "The voice of cleaners and janitors could not be clearer or more overwhelming.

"These workers are sick and tired of being taken for granted through covid and then to be offered a pay rise less than half of others is the final insult.

"Amey's approach has bordered on callous and if they do not respond they will be responsible for the unwanted disruption of Glasgow pupils' education."

Janitors and cleaners employed by Amey were balloted by GMB Scotland and voted overwhelmingly voted for strike action.

On a 69% turnout, GMB members voted 96% for strike action over pay.

Members say they are angry that their pay award is less than half of workers employed in local councils despite doing the same job and being funded from council budgets.

GMB Scotland is expected to serve notice on Amey in the next few days and strike action would follow on the week of December 7.

An Amey spokesperson said: "We are extremely disappointed by the vote to strike.

"As we have stated previously, last year we became a Real Living Wage employer and increased pay for employees working within Glasgow schools.

"We also enhanced employee benefits including raising annual leave entitlement by four days, increasing sick pay benefits and offering enhanced life assurance.

"We will continue to work with the GMB to reach a resolution on this year’s annual pay discussions as we continue to support our employees and minimise disruption to the local community."

Glasgow City Council continues to decline to comment.