Stagecoach bus strike called off

Further strikes in December could also be called off

A planned two-day strike by more than 1,200 bus drivers in Manchester has been called off.

Stagecoach drivers in the city were set to stage walkouts on Tuesday and Thursday in a protest over pay.

But the firm has now announced drivers will be balloted over a new wage deal following successful talks at the conciliation service ACAS.

Further 24-hour strikes planned for 1, 3, 5 and 7 December will also be called off if the deal is accepted.

The company's drivers have already rejected a 4.5% pay increase offer and union officials have previously said they were seeking a 6% rise set for 12 months.

A Stagecoach spokesman said more information on the new wage offer would be released on Tuesday.