UNION chiefs in the region are to hold a preliminary ballot over strike action across public services.

Public service union Unison will ask its biggest branch in the North-East to vote on whether industrial action should be taken over reforms to the pension system.

It says plans to raise retirement ages by five years could cost staff more than £1,500 a year in pensions.

Unison's Newcastle branch will be asked for an indicative vote on whether to take action early in the New Year, with a formal ballot due to follow in February if it gets members' backing.

Leaders say they will be pushing for a strike before the reforms are due to take effect on April 1.

Other unions across the public sector could take a similar stance, with discussions continuing over possible co-ordinated action, including with the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union, which represents civil servants.

Kenny Bell, from Unison's Newcastle branch, said: "Immediately in January, we will be doing a ballot of members. If there is a positive result from that indicative ballot, we will move to a formal ballot in February with a view to strike action towards the end of March.

"The TUC have agreed to co-ordinate a day of action in the new year and there is the potential for co-ordinated action with the PCS."

But the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, has defended the changes.

A spokesman said: "We want to offer a modern scheme that's attractive enough to bring in new members and keep existing members, but nevertheless is a good deal for all members. There's a consultation under way and we would hope Unison and the GMB contribute fully."