Bus drivers confirm strike action

Drivers apologised to customers in advance

More than 1,000 bus drivers in Edinburgh and the Lothians are to go on strike from next week.

The industrial action at Lothian Buses, the area's biggest bus operator, follows a dispute over pay.

The Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU) has informed Lothian Buses that drivers intend to go on indefinite strike from midnight on Wednesday of next week.

The drivers apologised in advance to the travelling public for the inconvenience their action would cause, but insisted it was the only option remaining open to them in their protest over pay.

The company said drivers' demands were unrealistic

Lothian Buses said it was disappointed to receive notification of indefinite strike action.

The operator described the drivers' demand for a 12% unconditional increase as unrealistic and stressed the company's offer of 5% linked to productivity remained open for negotiation.

Last year Lothian Buses made a complaint against rivals First Edinburgh.

Competition has intensified between the companies on the capital's busiest routes, with timetables changed, more vehicles moved in and some fares reduced.