Avanti West Coast employees to go on strike on Christmas

Avanti West Coast train managers have voted for a three-day strike over the Christmas period.

The RMT union said a walkout is scheduled for December 22, 23 and 29 on the London to Scotland service after rejecting the train company’s proposals for “rest day working arrangements”.

Train managers usually work four days a week but may be asked to work other days due to staff shortages but the RMT said the current arrangement is “unacceptable”.

A spokesperson for Avanti West Coast said customers will now face significant disruption due to these strikes at “one of our busiest and most important times of the year”.

The strike announcement comes just weeks after the RMT accepted a 5% backdated pay rise from the Rail Delivery Group, the body representing train companies.

But controversy remained over planned changes to working methods and negotiations over future pay.

Mick Lynch, general secretary of the RMT, said: “Train managers are being treated unfairly compared to senior managers, who receive significant pay to cover these roles.

“Our members have a lot to say and this strike action reflects their determination to win a fair deal.”

Avanti West Coast said: “We are disappointed that the RMT has voted to reject the very fair offer we have made to resolve the rest day working dispute and avoid inconvenience to the many people who are currently working on the West Coast Main Line. Will travel on the line.

“We will continue to work with the RMT to resolve the dispute.”

Mr Lynch said the union was prepared to reach an agreement, adding, “We urge management to show they are serious about resolving this dispute.”