A STRIKE by bus drivers expected later this week has been cancelled.

Bus drivers and engineers at Arriva North West were due to strike on Tuesday but following negotiations the strike day has been called off.

However, strikes on Wednesday and Thursday are still expected to go ahead.

Strikes are also scheduled from Wednesday, December 20 to Saturday, December 23.

Phil Stone, MD for Arriva North West, said: "Arriva North West has today tabled a new two year pay agreement with the unions, which the unions will now take to a ballot next Monday and Tuesday.

"We are pleased that the unions have agreed to cancel strike action on Tuesday, December 12.

"We believe our latest offer guaranteeing a two year pay rise represents a fair and decent deal for our drivers and hope the pay offer is accepted by our staff and we can return to delivering the best possible service to our passengers and the local economy."

On days when drivers are striking, passengers are advised that any pre-purchased tickets for travel in Merseyside, Greater Manchester, Lancashire or Cheshire can be used on the Merseyrail and Northern rail networks.

Arriva tickets will also be accepted on Stagecoach Quality Network Routes.

For specific information about local bus routes call Arriva's customer service on 0344 800 44 11.