Bus staff from Stagecoach and Metroline are planning further strikes across Greater Manchester from next week.

More than 1,900 workers are set to walk out on October 10, 11, 13, 18, 23 and 24, Unite the union said.

Although staff working at First had also been planning to strike, they have since been called off after workers accepted an 'exceptional' 20 per cent pay deal.

Strike action has caused major disruption on the bus network in Greater Manchester over September and October, with affected passengers saying they have had to fork out for taxis due to the impact on services.

Unite's regional officer, Colin Hayden, said: "We are very pleased to have had such an excellent win at First, which is thanks to the hard work of reps and members throughout the dispute.

"Unite remains open to negotiations with the other firms involved in the dispute, but unless new offers acceptable to our members are brought to the table more disruptive strike action will go ahead."

The 192 bus as seen on Wellington Road North / A6 (Image - Nub News)

Danny Vaughan, chief network officer at Transport for Greater Manchester, said: "We are pleased that planned industrial action has been suspended by First staff and an agreement reached. We encourage Stagecoach, Metroline and Unite to continue discussions to avert further strike action.

"Any updates about bus services next week will be available on the Bee Network website and social media channels in due course.

"We're still encouraging everyone to check the latest status of their service before they travel, leave plenty of time for their journey and to get in touch if they have any questions."

A Metroline Manchester spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that Unite has continued to pursue strike action rather than giving drivers the choice to ballot on our improved offer of an 8.8 per cent increase over two years. Our improved offer exceeds inflation and would ensure that our drivers continue to be amongst the best paid in the country.

"We value our drivers and the work they do and our team has worked tirelessly to present an offer that meets their expectations. We remain open and committed to finding resolution and want to avoid further industrial action which disrupts the everyday lives of our communities."

Paul Townley, general manager for First Bus in Rochdale, said: "We would like to thank our Unite the Union colleagues for the constructive pay talks, which have resulted in an agreement being reached and the cancellation of planned industrial action by our drivers.

"Our services will continue to run as planned, which is great news for customers who rely on us to get to work, school and other important events and appointments."

Stagecoach has been approached for comment.

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