Planned strikes at a North East bus service have been called off and drivers will be balloted on a deal.

GMB Union announced Christmas strike days earlier this month against travel giant Stagecoach over an ongoing dispute over pay.

The dispute, which is over a package GMB claims constitutes a "real-terms pay cut", has been going on for months and these strikes will see it continue from November to December.

Stuart Gilhespy, GMB Regional Organiser, said: “Following talks today, Sunderland’s bus drivers now have an improved pay offer. 

“As a gesture of goodwill, industrial action has been suspended until workers have voted on the new offer. 

“If they accept it, the strikes would be cancelled completely. 

"But if they turn it down, GMB will meet with members immediately to discuss new strike dates.” 

However, a spokesperson for Stagecoach North East confirmed that “following a constructive meeting with GMB Union” the strikes will be suspended.

Read more: Full list of dates North East bus drivers will strike over the Christmas period

A pay deal was offered that the union will put forward to vote on, meaning all planned strikes will be suspended while they vote. This exact pay deal has not yet been revealed.

The Northern Echo: Picture: MICHAEL ROBINSONPicture: MICHAEL ROBINSON (Image: Picture: MICHAEL ROBINSON)

Steve Walker, managing director for Stagecoach North East said: “We are pleased to have held constructive talks with GMB today and the union will be taking an offer forward for its members to vote on. 

“On this basis, we are pleased that GMB have agreed to suspend all future strike action planned in Sunderland and we will be able to run our normal service on these days.” 

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