Train strike 'solidly supported'

Gatwick Express said it was still running two trains an hour

A 24-hour strike by Gatwick Express train drivers was "solidly supported", a union leader said.

The walkout among members of the Aslef union disrupted journeys on the direct route between London and Gatwick Airport on Friday.

Managers have been drafted in to drive trains, which have been running every half hour instead of four times an hour.

Some of the striking drivers have formed a picket line at Victoria station.

Aslef is seeking a 6% pay rise for its members, which would take salaries up to £30,000 for the 60 or so drivers on the service.

Contingency plans

The company, which is owned by National Express, said it had offered a 7.5% pay rise over two years which would increase wages to £37,000 before overtime and benefits.

But a union spokesman said talks had broken down over the issue of payment for Sunday working.

Aslef general secretary Sean Brady joined the strikers at Victoria on Friday morning.

He said: "The company told me it would had contingency plans for breaking the strike but they should be putting all their efforts into resolving the dispute.

A Gatwick Express spokesman said efforts were being made to hold fresh talks with Aslef in an attempt to resolve the dispute.

Further stoppages are planned by the union for Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.