AIRPORT workers threatening to strike over a pay dispute branded their employers "intimidating" last night after the company warned they could lose their jobs over the walk-out.

About 170 check-in staff who work for ground handling agent Groundstar at Newcastle Airport are voting within the next few days on industrial action.

The staff are threatening to strike after rejecting a three per cent pay rise.

Union leaders accused Groundstar bosses of making the situation worse by sending a letter warning staff that they could lose their jobs if they strike.

The company, which performs ground services for British Airways and KLM at Newcastle, initially denied sending the letter.

But the company backtracked after The Northern Echo obtained a copy.

The message, from Groundstar general manager Rhonda Anderson, said that the strike action would lead to a "reduction in the company's potential to gain new business and therefore risking future employment opportunities".

A company spokesman said: "The letter was a clear statement of the facts, intended to clarify the situation to Groundstar employees and let them know what was on offer. If they choose to interpret it in another way, that is their decision."

One Groundstar worker, who asked not to be named, said: "I find the letter from Rhonda Anderson patronising, but more importantly intimidating."

Graham Eastwood, regional organiser of the Transport and General Workers' Union, said: "They are inflaming the situation. Our members are already angry and this has made things worse."

If workers agree to strike, flights in and out of Newcastle would be hit from Monday, August 18 - a week before the Bank Holiday.

August is traditionally the airport's busiest period, with 400,000 travellers expected through the doors.