A volunteer at Sidmouth's Oxfam shop has spoken out in support of the paid workers who are taking strike action from tomorrow (Friday, December 8).

Oxfam shop staff who are members of the Unite union are taking industrial action over pay for the first time in the charity's 81-year history. 

The strike will run for 17 days, until December 31, leading to shop closures during what should be a busy and profitable time for them.

A volunteer at the Sidmouth branch contacted the Herald to say she fully supports the strike action.

The woman, who asked not to be named, said: "Oxfam shop managers have all the responsibilities of running a normal shop, but they're paid the minimum wage - it's unfair."

Unite balloted its workers for strike action after rejecting a pay increase of £1,750 or six per cent, plus a one-off taxed payment of £1,000 for the lowest earners.

A spokesperson for Oxfam said the charity 'deeply regrets' being unable to offer more, but the settlement Unite is asking for is 'simply not affordable'.