Newspaper deliveries could be hit as distribution staff go on strike over a pay dispute.

At least 300 staff at Menzies Distribution will take industrial action following a pay offer which Unite, the country's largest union, describe as a 'pitiful'.

Menzies, which has distribution depots at the Larkfield Trading Estate, off New Hythe Lane, and on the Orbital Park in Ashford, delivers national and local newspapers and magazines to newsagents and supermarkets.

In a statement released by Unite, the union said the pay offer of £7.25 an hour is only five pence above the new national living wage of £7.20 and double time and bank holiday pay have been wiped out.

Unite members voted with 86% in favour of strike action within the next fortnight.

Ian Tonks, from the union, said: "For the first time ever our members working for Menzies have overwhelmingly voted for strike action which is a strong indication of their anger at the pitiful pay offer.

"The wiping out of extra pay and time off for bank holidays have caused particular ire for our members, compounded by this company's cloying addiction to minimum wage pay levels."

The firm also has distribution centres in Bromley-by-Bow, Greenwich, Norwich, Ipswich, Portsmouth, West Thurrock and Weybridge.

It serves 29,500 retail customers across the country and delivers 7.4 million copies of 630 newspapers titles and 3,300 magazines, including KM Group titles. Its drivers make 207,000 deliveries a week.

Menzies has been approached for comment.