Unison says around 1,200 employees will now be paid 'properly' for their work and compensated for any incorrect wages. The staff had been performing clinical tasks above their salary grade for many years, according to the union.

After months of campaigning and five days of strike action in June and July, the trust agreed to fresh talks, which resulted in an improved offer that moved staff on band 2 of the NHS Agenda for Change pay scale up to band 3. The deal also guaranteed back pay for previous work done at the higher level.

Kerry Baigent, Unison south west regional secretary, said: 'It's fantastic to see these dedicated workers finally recognised and compensated for the time that they were paid incorrectly.

'The staff should never have had to take strike action to secure a fair deal, but it's encouraging that the trust listened, agreed to the regrade of staff and deliver the back pay they deserve. Unison will now work with the trust to ensure everyone affected receives their payments promptly.'