MEMBERS of nine trade unions are preparing for industrial action in a row over local government pensions.

A day of protest has been organised for Tuesday, February 28, in response to new proposals to increase the retirement age to 65.

A rally will be held in the town hall square at lunchtime.

Unions involved in the action will be UNISON, Amicus, the Transport & General Workers, GMB, the National Association of Probation Officers and the National Union of Teachers.

More than a million local Government workers are to be balloted for strike action over the issue.

Under the plans, the Government would scrap the so-called 85 rule - under which workers whose age and length of service added up to 85 years could retire early.

The change would affect staff working in council care services, libraries, schools and refuse collection.

Natalie Mills, of the Bolton Council branch of UNISON, said "Our members are angry at plans to worsen the pension scheme they have signed up to. We will be calling for action if necessary to show the government we mean business."

The Pancake Day Protest marks the last day of a Government consultation period.

Jason Travis, president of Bolton NUT, said: "We are fully supportive of this day of action and are encouraging any members who are able to go along to do so."

UNISON members will be updated on their union's pension campaign at branch meetings at Bolton Town Hall on March 15 and 16.