The new deal, which Peel Ports said included a 9% increase in basic pay and Unite said was worth between 14.3% and 18.5% depending on job type, was accepted in a vote by around 600 Unite members on November 10.

The union said its members would return to normal work duties, bringing to a close ongoing, escalating industrial action which began on September 19.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is a highly significant victory for the Unite members on Liverpool docks. The determined resolve of our members on the picket line and Unite's strikes-plus strategy has forced the company to see sense and do the right thing. Make no mistake – Unite will continue to fight for jobs, pay and conditions and defend workers relentlessly.”

Unite national officer Bobby Morton said: “The hard work and solidarity of our members and reps at Peel Ports, combined with the union’s strategic tactics, has paid off. This victory is another reminder of why those who want to improve their pay and working lives should join Unite and become part of the fight for a better deal.”