Weekend bus users hit by 48-hour strike

Bus passengers face a weekend of chaos as thousands of drivers strike over a new pay deal.

The strike, which started at 3am today, will affect 137 services across the capital.

Drivers from First Capital East and First Centrewest will be out for 48 hours and Metrobus workers are planning a 24-hour walkout.

The industrial action began after talks between management of the companies and union bosses broke down.

Drivers voted to reject a four per cent pay rise and are asking for a basic rate of £30,000 a year for a 38-hour week. In a ballot of 28,000, 90 per cent voted to strike.

John Griffiths, an official at Metrobus, said: "Our members are determined to achieve a fair settlement and unless the company makes a realistic pay offer, strike action will continue and cause significant disruption to bus services."

Transport for London said it was working to keep disruption to a minimum, but warned passengers to check their routes and check for updates before travelling.