Nissan workers have accepted a pay deal - ending the threat of the company's first ever strike.

Sixty one per cent of the 4,672-strong Sunderland workforce voted for a six per cent offer over the next two years.

Amicus, the sole union represented at the firm with 797 members, said the size of the "No" vote - 39 per cent - showed the "level of discontent" at the site. It is now planning a recruitment drive.

About 100 men and women have joined since the initial pay deal was put forward by Nissan, according to union officials.

Davey Hall, regional secretary for Amicus, said: "Even though the offer has been accepted, we believe it falls well short of other major motor manufacturing wage deals that we have negotiated elsewhere in the country.

"We have been extremely encouraged by the volume of requests to join the union.

"It is apparent from the vote that 2,000 workers are not happy with the offer. We now intend mounting a campaign to boost our membership at Nissan."

Workers voted in a ballot on Friday, the results of which were revealed yesterday. The pay deal will give workers a three per cent rise for 2003, back dated to the start of the year, and a further three per cent for 2004, or the rate of inflation, depending on which is higher.

The vote came after a recommendation of acceptance by the full company council, followed by presentations to all employees.

John Cushnaghan, managing director, said: "I am delighted that this matter has been fully resolved internally after extensive employee consultation.

"I feel it is a reflection of the excellent relationship the company has had with its employees over many years."