TRADE unionists are taking to the streets to make sure East Lancashire workers know their rights under minimum wage rules.

The Lancashire TUC will be distributing thousands of leaflets and offering advice in town centres on October 2 to remind employees of the wage level of £3.60 an hour for over 21s and £3 for people aged between 18 and 21.

"We ran our first Low Pay Day in May immediately after the legislation came into effect," said Peter Billington, the Accrington-based Lancashire TUC secretary.

"The second day of action will give people the chance to tell us about any problems they are having. We will be happy to help anyone who is unsure of their rights or whose employer is breaking the law.

"We are especially concerned that some employers are reducing workers' hours to compensate for the minimum wage, they should realise that this is a breach of contract and that they could be taken to an Employment Tribunal."

The TUC also has a helpline number on 01254 391423 available after 6pm Monday to Friday.

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