By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter
Parking wardens for the famous Wimbledon tennis Championships are celebrating after a council U-turn means their overtime pay will not be cut this summer.
A consultation has been paused by Merton council ahead of the iconic tournament, which will take place over June and July.
The GMB Union said the council was “taking money away from low paid workers at the worst time” when it proposed making changes to overtime payments.
Every year parking wardens are on hand to manage the thousands of cars that descend on Wimbledon over the two weeks.
After backlash from union members, Merton council has retracted a consultation on overtime rates for the workers.
While this means things will stay the same in 2022, there could still be changes in 2023 as the consultation will continue after the championships.
Alice Reynolds, GMB regional organiser, said: “GMB are pleased that this year civil enforcement officers will continue to have their terms and conditions protected for their hard work at Wimbledon.
“GMB members have requested more information from Merton council for the consultation that will bring the ball back into their court.
“Our members work hard to keep the British institution that is the Wimbledon Championships running smoothly and safely – that must be recognised. GMB will continue to listen to its members and keep their advantage point.”
Merton council said that it will consider whether to make changes after the summer tournament which could come into force before the 2023 event.
A council spokeswoman said: “We will continue our consultation on overtime payments after the 2022 Championships, but no changes are proposed this year.
“After the consultation, we will consider whether any changes in overtime payments should be made to bring them into line with the rest of the council in time for the 2023 event.”
Pictured top: Strawberries and cream at Wimbledon