MORE than 200 new members have joined Unison in North Yorkshire ahead of a highly-publicised strike this week.

Plans for the one-day stoppage, on Wednesday, are said to be gathering momentum among local government staff angry at pay levels.

Unison spokesman for North Yorkshire, Denis Jeffrey, said the branch had accepted dozens of members since the national pay dispute began.

"Given the staff recruitment and retention problems experienced by councils, including North Yorkshire, young people thinking about a career in public services can be forgiven for thinking our members are mugs for providing vital community services throughout the year on the current pay levels," he said.

Members will picket selected county council premises on Wednesday, despite pleas from senior authority officials to call off the action.

Hambleton District Council said it would be open for business despite the strike, with Northallerton's weekly market operating as usual. Council offices in Northallerton and Easingwold will be open, as will all leisure centres and the World of James Herriot Centre, in Thirsk.