BUSES in the region will run as normal today after a proposed strike by drivers was called off.

Stagecoach North East has agreed to meet the demands of drivers who have been fighting for a pay increase to £6 per hour.

After a campaign of industrial action, which has severely disrupted services in Hartlepool, Darlington and Stockton, the company met union officials on Monday.

Union leaders have now advised the 400 bus drivers in all depots to accept the offer at a formal ballot being held later today.

A third one-day strike, which was due to take place today, has been suspended until the results of the ballot are known

Last night, emergency branch meetings of the union were held in the region to advise drivers of the new offer.

Stockton branch secretary and chair of the central negotiation committee for all three areas, Mick Riley said: "The new offer will be put to the members at a ballot today.

"It is a deal that we will be recommending. We have got what we asked for which was an increase to £6 per hour.

"The union is recommending that members accept the offer. I can't say if the drivers will go for it as it's up to the individual. I am optimistic though."

Other staff working at the depots, such as cleaning and administrators, will also benefit from the pay increase.

Allan Gray, passenger trade group secretary with the Transport and General Workers Union, said: "It is an improved offer from the company. The trade union is strongly recommending members to accept it."

Ian Pointon, marketing manager for Stagecoach North East said: "This announcement will be welcome news for people in Darlington, Hartlepool and Stockton.

"We sincerely apologise to our valued customers who have been inconvenienced by the two recent stoppages.

"We can look ahead to resuming business as usual."

The results of the ballot will be announced later today