Workers at the country's oldest chromium plant have voted to accept an improved redundancy offer.

The threat of strike action was averted this week as union members voted 114 to 14 in favour of the redundancy package put forward by Elementis Chromium, in Eaglescliffe, near Yarm.

The Transport and General Workers (T&G) and Amicus unions will meet with company bosses tomorrow to discuss the redundancy process, which will begin at the end of the 90-day consultation period on February 7.

Joe Keith, the T&G's senior regional industrial organiser, said talks will focus on the criteria used in the redundancy process and on looking to reduce the number of job cuts.

Elementis announced in October its plans to shed 120 jobs at its Urlay Nook plant and close one of the kilns, blaming high energy costs for its continued losses.

David Raw, technical director at Elementis, said the vote was an important step forward for the company.

"It will allow us to focus on securing a stable future for the plant, to take the business forward and make the right decision for the people who remain with us," he said.

No announcement has been made on when redundancies will take place, although Mr Raw said a decision will be taken at the beginning of February.

Elementis is due to meet with regional development agency One NorthEast later this month to continue talks about the possibility of financial help.