GNER has played down pros-pects of industrial action as it prepares to enter pay negotiations with its drivers.

Reports suggested the train operator could be dragged into a similar dispute over pay as that faced by Arriva Trains Northern.

The train drivers' union, Aslef, has said it is seeking a "substantial increase" for GNER's 300 drivers, who are paid about £33,000 a year.

But this is thought to be a gambit on behalf of the union, and GNER said it was a "non-starter" to talk of possible strike action. Spokes-man David Mallender said: "We wish to assure passengers that there is no cause for alarm. We were one of the first companies to increase rates of pay for our drivers and they are on a par with most of the long-distance train operators."

Aslef confirmed it was submitting a pay claim this month to GNER and Virgin as part of a normal pay round.

Meanwhile, GNER has reassured travellers that it will not be affected by the latest strike action on Arriva Trains.

Conductors, backed by the Rail Maritime and Transport union, will walk out tomorrow and on Saturday.

GNER said passengers making journeys involving travel on connecting Arriva services should, however, confirm their travel arrangements before departure.

More information on regional train services is available by calling the National Rail Enquiries Service on (08457) 484950.