UNION bosses have announced a series of protests against plans for 'crushing' town hall wage cuts.

Around 1,200 Bury council workers are facing a pay cut after a review to make sure the authority isn't breaking equal pay rules.

Last week more than 600 workers took to the streets of Bury in a lunchtime protest against the proposals.

Now public sector union Unison has announced two more public protests next month.

Bury council says 4,000 workers in 1,100 different jobs would be affected by the changes, enforced under nationally-binding equal pay laws.

A total of 42 per cent of workers will get a wage increase and 28 per cent will stay the same. But wages for 30 per cent - around 1,200 - will be cut.

The union said the move would see some salaries slashed by around £7,500.

Possible strike action has not been ruled out. Unison's Steve Stott said the demonstration was a 'clear indication of members' anger and concerns'.

He said: "The strength of feeling over the way the council has handled this review was clear. Workers turned out in force and were determined to make their voices heard. They wanted to voice their disgust that some salaries will drop by as much as £7,500."

The union said talks with council bosses would be held on August 27, followed by discussions with Bury's councillors the following day.

Protests however have been earmarked for September 9 at Bury Town Hall and September 10 at Radcliffe Civic Hall.

The union predicts that almost all workers facing pay cuts would lodge appeals.

All staff - barring those earning over £45,000 - were evaluated under a 'pay and grading review' to establish new salary scales under national legislation designed to provide equality in jobs where women were traditionally underpaid.

Any pay reductions would be phased in over three years from 2010 and Unison said a two-month consultation period was in force. An advice and support helpline has been set up.

Bury council said all other Greater Manchester councils are expected to announce results of their reviews and the scheme was nationally binding.