Equal value claims were lodged in August 1997

Public services union Unison says about 1,500 female workers at North Cumbria Acute NHS Trust stand to receive between �35,000 and �200,000 each.

But the trust says no decision has been reached and has dismissed the �300m payout claim as "wildly exaggerated".

Unison official Peter Doyle says he will stake his job on the outcome.

Equal value claims were lodged in August 1997 for 14 different working categories, comparing women's salaries against those of men.

'Challenge trust'

The women, including nurses and clerical officers, compared their pay with that of craftsmen and joiners, building labourers and all washers, works officers and maintenance assistants.

Mr Doyle said: "I challenge the trust to bring me their figures. If mine are correct, they should resign, but if theirs are correct I will resign instantly.

"They haven't done their sums in eight years. I absolutely know that I'm in the right. I've done these sums every year since 1997, every time there is a pay rise I've re-assessed the value of this case."

Two years ago, a panel of experts found in favour of the union's claim.

'No settlement'

Unison said around 1,500 workers could now claim back pay for up to six years, with some receiving 14 years pay.

But North Cumbria Acute Hospitals NHS Trust chief executive Marie Burnham said: "Contrary to media reports, I want to again confirm that no settlement has been reached concerning Equal Value Claims - a fact confirmed today by Unison's own legal team.

"Talks are still continuing and it would be unfair on staff to speculate on any final outcome.

"The last thing I want is for all those who have made claims to be disappointed if they don't receive the substantial sums quoted in speculative reports. It should be noted that any payments would depend on the individual circumstances of each claimant.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to reassure the people of North Cumbria. Whatever the outcome of an agreement, the Department of Health has told me that any settlement will not impact on funds allocated to local acute health services in North Cumbria."