Stagecoach bus strikes called off after drivers accept pay offer

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the union had "fought tirelessly for a better pay deal" for Stagecoach drivers

Bus drivers in Greater Manchester have voted to accept a new pay offer.

Drivers at Stagecoach were due to walk out on 4 to 8 September in the latest of a series of strikes.

The union Unite said it had secured its Stagecoach members a "significant pay rise", which would see pay increases of about 16% for both new and established drivers.

However, it said drivers at First Manchester would still strike in September over a separate pay dispute.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the union had "fought tirelessly for a better pay deal".

"Our relentless focus on the jobs, pay and conditions for the bus drivers at Stagecoach, allied with their grit and determination, has led to this important win," she said.

Unite North-West regional officer Colin Hayden added that the "pressure" was now on First Manchester "to head back to the negotiating table with an improved offer".

"Our members there will be looking at the victory secured here and demanding the same," he said.

Lee Wasnidge, managing director of Stagecoach Manchester, said he was pleased the drivers had accepted the deal, which he said was "an industry-leading pay settlement".

"Our drivers will now be amongst the best paid in the region with excellent terms and conditions," he said.

He added that being able to put forward a pay offer that provided "real terms" increases in the face of the ongoing cost of living pressures "really re-enforces Stagecoach's commitment to supporting our people".

The BBC has approached First Manchester for comment.

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