Major Sussex tourist attractions could be hit by an English Heritage workers' strike over pay next month.

Members of Prospect, which represents many English Heritage staff, voted three to one in favour of industrial action.

The union plans a one-day strike on March 11 followed by a series of work-to-rule days in protest at English Heritage's 3.5 per cent pay award.

Attractions such as Battle Abbey, Pevensey Castle and Bramber Castle are likely to be affected.

With many Sussex attractions reeling from the aftermath of September 11 and a fall in the number of visiting Americans, tourism bosses fear further disruption.

Mark Dowling, development director of the South East England Tourist Board, said: "With Easter coming up it would be of great concern if this industrial action escalated, further hindering the prospects of recovery for tourism.

"We think this could be a good year thanks to the jubilee and the northern European market returning so we don't want a load of strikes."

Prospect, which represents about a third of English Heritage staff, said the pay award left it no alternative but to strike.

The Public and Commerical Services union, which represents a further third of English Heritage staff, is balloting its members.

Steve Jary, Prospect's negotiating officer, said English Heritage planned to spend £500,000 on marketing, leaving staff feeling overloaded and let down.

He added: "Members cannot understand why, following one of the lowest pay offers in government service, money is being taken out of the payroll on advertising."

English Heritage said the 3.5 per cent pay increase was the most it could afford in a "financially challenging" year.