Woolwich Ferry workers are being balloted for strike action which could shut down the popular river crossing service.

Around 27 ferry workers, including the ship's crew, electricians and road traffic teams are being balloted for strike action by the Unite union.

Unite has accused the operator of the Woolwich Ferry, Briggs Marine Contractors, of riding roughshod over long standing agreements and practises including sick pay.

Unite regional officer Onay Kasab, said: "Our members have had enough of Briggs Marine's continual failure to deal with very serious long-standing grievances.

"Its refusal to abide by its own sickness pay policy means that a worker off sick with cancer has been told to repay sick pay payments, going against the company's own procedures.

Mr Kasab also said that ferry workers are angry about the operator's use of agency staff rather than allowing permanent staff overtime as well as its refusal to replicate the pay awards made to council If the ferry workers decide to strike the river crossing service which carries more than 3,500 vehicles and 5,000 passengers a day will shut down.

He also added: "Unite is calling on Briggs Marine to come to its senses and get around the negotiating table to settle this dispute."

A spokesperson from Briggs Marine Contractors, who have operated the Woolwich Ferry for two years, said: "We have worked hard with our workforce to improve relations and provide a more reliable service for customers.

"We meet trade union representatives regularly, and met Unite officials in December to discuss a number of issues.

"At no time was a strike ballot mentioned and we regret the uncertainty this will cause the many people and businesses who rely on this important service.

"We are more than ready to get around the table and look forward to the same commitment from Unite."

The ballot begun yesterday and closes on January 16.