Gatwick Express drivers to strike

Thousands of passengers using the Gatwick Express could face travel chaos over Christmas as train drivers announced they are to stage four one-day strikes.

The walk-outs will be held on 28 November, 8 December, Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.

The move, announced by their union Aslef, follows an overwhelming vote in favour of industrial action in a dispute over pay.

The union is seeking a 6% pay rise, and claims its drivers are the lowest paid in the industry.

Around 60 drivers work on the Gatwick Express line, which runs a direct rail service between Gatwick Airport and London's Victoria station.

The service is owned by transport giant National Express, which has offered a 3% rise, with a further 1% based on productivity.

The union wants a rise which would take the salaries of its drivers over £30,000, from the £28,215 they currently earn.