We may be in the 21st Century but in some people's eyes it is still seen as acceptable for women to earn less than men for comparable work

Eileen Turnbull, GMB union

Eileen Turnbull, regional organiser for the GMB trade union, said: "This group of women never wavered in their resolute determination to have their claim heard.

"Their support for each other was magnificent in what were extremely difficult circumstances."

The claim was brought under the Equal Pay Act of 1970 after the women realised they were earning less than male colleagues.

Men, working as street sweepers or refuse collectors on the same pay scale, were receiving extra cash through bonuses and attendance payments.

'Comparable work'

Ms Turnbull added: "There is a clear moral to this tale.

"We may be in the 21st Century but in some people's eyes it is still seen as acceptable for women to earn less than men for comparable work."

The GMB's solicitor, Mark Berry, said: "Settlements will vary, but some could be in excess of �2,000.

"The council has agreed that they are entitled to the back pay and now we are negotiating the proposals to ensure that the women are paid correctly in the future."

'Equality commitment'

A spokeswoman for St Helens Council in Merseyside said negotiations over the settlement were still continuing.

She said: "The council continues its commitment to equality.

"It has taken steps to address the equality issues by serving notice on the problematic bonus scheme and by its plans to introduce an agreed and objective job-evaluation scheme.

"In terms of the financial aspects, any increases in the council's pay bill find their way into the costs of providing the services."