More than 2500 postal workers across central Scotland will be balloted on industrial action in support of a colleague who was sacked over allegations of theft.

The Communications and Workers Union (CWU) has given the go-ahead for the vote following strikes in Cupar in January.

It expects a "resounding yes" from members, who have already shown "huge support" for former postman David Mitchell, 57, who used to deliver in Cupar, Fife.

Royal Mail is refusing to reinstate the long-serving worker who was dismissed after 27 years of service over allegations of theft, which he vehemently denies.

Mr Mitchell took his former bosses to an employment tribunal, winning £57,000 in compensation and lost earnings.

Judge Ian McFatridge also ordered the postal service to reinstate Mr Mitchell, twice, as he said there were no reasonable grounds for the belief he had stolen mail but it has failed to do so.

Mr Mitchell said: "Now that the motion's been passed it's fantastic news and I'm just hoping the guys see the bigger picture and come out in support of me. If it could happen to me, it could happen to anyone.

"The bosses don't need evidence, they just need reasons for belief. What's the point of going to an employment tribunal when you win and they don't do what the judge says anyway? It's something that needs to be addressed.

"After the tribunal I assumed I'd be straight back to work but then I got a letter saying they wouldn't be reinstating me. The wind was knocked out of my sails.

"I just want to get back to work, I miss it. I've delivered to those customers for the last 27 years and I know them by name.

"I am desperate to go back to what I love doing and I certainly don't have any problem with the local Cupar office. The decision is higher up."

Mr Mitchell has also won the support of his local MP Stephen Gethins, who described the situation as a "question of fairness".

He has urged Royal Mail to respect the decision of the tribunal judge and reinstate Mr Mitchell. The CWU says Royal Mail failed to properly investigate the theft allegations.

During the tribunal, the judge heard Mr Mitchell's delivery van, personal car, home and clothing were searched by investigators.

It came after items of mail were reported missing on his round, but no trace of the items were found. If the motion to strike is passed, CWU members in Edinburgh and the Lothians, the Borders, Fife and Central Scotland are expected to strike.

Kenny Logan, CWU Scotland number two branch secretary, said: "We're expecting a resounding yes from our members for this industrial action.

"The decision was made on Tuesday and no date has been set for the ballot yet. There are things that need to be put in place and we need to ensure there will be no legal challenges by the business.

"This is a big issue that our members feel very strongly about and they have already shown great support for David Mitchell."

A Royal Mail spokesman said: "Royal Mail is still hopeful of finding a resolution with our union on this local issue to ensure that customers do not face any disruption.

"Our customers also expect Royal Mail to do everything in its power to protect the mail we are entrusted to deliver. Following an investigation Royal Mail considered there to be reasonable grounds to suspect wrongdoing in relation to test postal items and Mr Mitchell was dismissed.

"We will not reinstate Mr Mitchell, as we believe that the trust between employee and employer has completely broken down. As we feel unable to reinstate Mr Mitchell, the Judge ordered Royal Mail to pay additional compensation, which Mr Mitchell has now received. The legal proceedings have now concluded."