A strike by workers at John Lennon Airport in Liverpool was taking place this morning following the rejection of a deal aimed at ending a row over jobs.

The GMB union said baggage handlers and other ground staff working for Servisair would strike indefinitely from 4am in protest at plans to cut jobs.

Talks were held earlier this week over plans to cut 27 jobs.

The GMB said baggage handlers and other ground staff will now continue with the strike.

Eddie Parker of the GMB said union members overwhelmingly rejected proposals tabled earlier this week, adding: “We regret the inconvenience the dispute will have on the travelling public.”

John Lennon Airport said it had been assured by ServiSair that it would be “business as usual” despite the strike.

A spokesman said the airport had been assured robust contingency plans were in place to ensure passengers would not be inconvenienced.

And workers at Manchester Airport have voted for industrial action in three separate disputes over pay, threatening disruption over the August bank holiday, it was announced last night.

Unite said hundreds of its members voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action.

About 300 Unite members employed by Swissport, Rentokil/Initial and refuelling firm ASIG took part in separate ballots.