Rail passengers face disruption as strikes hit London to Glasgow route

Wave of strikes affecting Avanti West Coast services

Rail passengers are set to face disruption at the start of the new year as a wave of strikes hits the London to Glasgow route. Hundreds of train managers from Avanti West Coast are set to walk out, impacting services on this key route.

Reduced timetable and no services to North Wales, Blackpool, and Edinburgh

The strikes, called by RMT union members, will not only affect services today but are also scheduled to take place every Sunday from January 12 to May 25. Passengers can expect a much-reduced timetable, with services starting later and finishing earlier. Areas like North Wales, Blackpool, and Edinburgh will have no Avanti services during the strike period.

Reasons behind the strikes

The strikes were initiated by train managers last year due to issues with payments for working on days off. They expressed frustration over senior managers brought in to cover roles during staff shortages earning more than the train managers themselves. Despite three strikes being called off last month for a vote on a new pay offer, the offer was ultimately rejected.

Company and union perspectives

Avanti director Kathryn O'Brien expressed disappointment over the situation, highlighting that customers will face significantly disrupted journeys. On the other hand, the union stated that sustained strike action was necessary to make management address their concerns.

History of strikes and resolution

Services on this route have been affected by strikes for the past two years, with a resolution only being reached when Labour was elected, promising to bring peace to the railways. The ongoing strike action reflects the ongoing tensions between rail workers and management.