Stagecoach staff reject pay offer

Stagecoach staff were balloted about industrial action

Workers at transport group Stagecoach have rejected a near 10% pay rise and will take industrial action, starting on Thursday.

Stagecoach had put a revised offer to about 500 drivers, mechanics and administration staff in the north east of Scotland and Highlands.

The company said it was "astonished" at the rejection.

It said it was drafting in 160 staff from across the UK to try and keep the service going on Thursday.

Members are based at bus depots in Aberdeen, Stonehaven, Banchory, Ballater, Insch, Alford, Fraserburgh, Peterhead, Elgin, Macduff, Inverness and Tain.