RAIL workers on a key intercity route will stage a 24-hour strike on Sunday in defence of a worker victimised for calling out an abusive manager.

Staff union RMT said that the woman was selected for redundancy by First Hull Trains, which operates express services between London and Hull, for reprimanding a manager for verbally abusing a colleague.

Bosses disregarded agreed procedures on redundancy to get rid of the worker, the union added, and accused the company of “bogus claims that they had recently had to have a necessary minor reorganisation.”

“RMT has given Hull Trains plenty of time and opportunity to reinstate our member but they have chosen instead to adopt a cavalier and confrontational attitude,” said RMT general secretary Mick Cash.

“Our members registered their anger in an overwhelming vote for action and following consideration by the union’s executive we will be taking action this weekend and through into Monday.”

The strike could affect transport from London for Chelsea football fans attending a match against Hull City on Sunday.