A CAR rally has taken place earlier today in support of striking Rolls-Royce workers.

The workers have been taking part in targeted strike action at the company's Barnoldwick plant since November in opposition to plans to cut 350 jobs.

Today's convoy of cars gathered outside the plant at 10.30am and travelled for miles around the area as a way of demonstrating the depth of support the striking workers say they have from members of the local community as well as fellow trade unionists.

Unite union regional officer Ross Quinn said: "I'm in awe of our Rolls Royce reps, members and the community.

"There were literally miles and miles of cars at the rally, I can’t wait to see the footage.

"What a day!"

Union members will hope that this display will help to convince company management to reconsider their plans.

A Unite spokesperson said: "An overwhelming display of support today in a convoy that tailed back for miles shows exactly how the community of Barnoldswick, the Rolls-Royce workers and the entire trade union movement has come together to show Rolls-Royce we stand united."

This comes after the company announced that another 140 jobs could be cut if current plans go ahead.

Meanwhile Rolls-Royce has also been criticised for launching a 'Christmas lockout', meaning that the factory has been closed since November 27 and will remain shut until after Christmas, with furlough payments guaranteed only to workers that have not been taking part in industrial action.

However, company directors have insisted that the economic impact of the coronavirus crisis has much such moves unavoidable.

Rolls-Royce president of civil aerospace Chris Cholerton said: “This is a very difficult proposal to make, but we cannot afford to retain every Rolls-Royce factory that was supported by demand that has been dramatically reduced by the pandemic."