STAGECOACH bosses have asked Unite to delay the bus strike this weekend as a ‘gesture of goodwill’ after new pay proposals.

The company are expecting a decision from Unite tomorrow after the union agreed to take a vote on offers of an ‘above-pay inflation pay proposal’.

Stagecoach drivers are currently set to strike once more on Saturday for a week following a pay-dispute with their employer.

They were also on strike earlier this month, but the union Unite have promised there will be no disruption over the Christmas period.

Stagecoach announced earlier today that they are expecting a decision on the vote by tomorrow afternoon.

Phil Medlicott, managing director for Stagecoach Yorkshire, said: “We have continued to work hard to deliver a fair pay increase for our people which will also ensure the long-term sustainability of the bus network for our local communities.

“Following further talks with Unite, we have put forward above-inflation pay proposals which the union has agreed to take a vote of its members this week and we expect a decision by Friday afternoon.

“In the meantime, in view of the latest developments and a gesture of goodwill, we would urge the union to suspend its strike action planned to start this weekend.

“We would advise customers to consider alternative travel arrangements in the event the strikes go ahead.”