Train conductors from a strike-hit rail operator are planning to abandon their picket line and turn up to work to continue their pay row.

Workers on Arriva Trains Northern are considering having "no fares" days where passengers will not be obliged to pay ticket collectors to travel.

The move comes after talks broke down on Wednesday between Arriva bosses and union officials in London over pay rise discrepancies offered to conductors and guards which fell short of large increases recently given to drivers.

The union says the decision to ditch strike action in favour of "no fares" days is aimed at hitting the firm's profits while still providing a regular service for passengers.

Stan Herschel, regional organiser for the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union, said: "It is quite clear that Arriva are not moving one iota. They are saying 'We are in for the long haul and your members will get sick before we do'.

"If this is going to go on for a long time the travelling public are going to get slaughtered. We decided to seek legal advice on what to do instead of a strike.

"That advice said it was OK if we have a ballot. I think when the situation is explained clearly to our members they will see it is a positive move.

"My members have got a hell of a lot of stomach for the fight."

Arriva would not be drawn on the nature of the union's shift in tactics, but continued to maintain the consistent line that the door is open for "meaningful discussions".

A spokeswoman said: "Arriva Trains Northern met with the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union to seek a resolution to the dispute concerning the 2002 pay award for conductors. Regrettably no progress was made.

"ATN remains available at any time for meaningful discussions with the RMT and urges the conductors not to create further inconvenience."

The planned strike action for March 1 and 2 looks likely to go ahead.