PLANNED strike action by Arriva bus drivers in Wirral, Merseyside and Manchester this weekend has been called off.

Unite's Arriva North West union members had voted unanimously in favour of all-out strike action, which was due to begin on Saturday morning and would have disrupted services across the region, in a dispute over pay. 

The ballot of 1,800 staff, based at depots in Birkenhead, St Helens, Liverpool, Southport, Winsford and Manchester, resulted in an 87 per cent vote in favour of strike action, with a turnout of 76 per cent.

Pay negotiations between Unite and Arriva North West have been running since June.

Following fresh pay talks today, a new improved pay offer of a three per cent pay rise was made by Arriva management.

Unite is now in the process of balloting its members on the offer. If rejected, fresh notice for strike action will be served.

The union's general secretary Sharon Graham said: "Unite’s members have shown that by standing together in unity management has been obliged to make an improved pay offer.

"Arriva must understand that we remain utterly determined to secure proper and lasting improvements to the pay and conditions of our members."

Unite regional officer Alison Spencer-Scragg said: "This offer is a welcome step in the right direction. Unite’s members will now decide if it meets their aspirations.”

An Arriva UK Bus spokesperson said: "Arriva can confirm that strike action this weekend has been called off. 

"We now have a recommended offer with Unite and GMB which will be put to their members next week. 

"This is good news for now, but we must work together for a full resolution. Arriva services will operate as normal this weekend - this is the right outcome."