"I am a strong believer that there was an underlying reason behind my dismissal. I was due a fairly hefty pay increase, this month."

@Shadowmonkey; As you're UK based, it might be worth finding your local Citizens' Advice Bureau (check the web for location), telling them the story, and asking if there might be a case of "constructive dismissal" to be made. It's a free service, so you've nothing to lose by asking.

m.