Bus strikes will hit Wharfedale on Monday

From the archive, first published Friday 8th Dec 2006.

A STRIKE by drivers working for the main operator of buses in Wharfedale and Aireborough is to go ahead on Monday.

West Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive, Metro, is asking commuters to use train services, and is advising drivers to car share with colleagues, set off early and take advantage of flexible working hours, to avoid rush hour gridlock.

Leeds-based drivers working for First voted on Thursday night to go ahead with their strike, which is expected to affect up to threequarters of buses in the Leeds area.

Most bus services in Wharfedale are operated by First Leeds, and the company says it will only be able to operate a skeleton service around the whole of the Leeds area.

Most My Bus yellow school buses in the Leeds area are expected to run on Monday, although all schools services run in Wharfedale by First Leeds will be affected.

The company says it has written to all the Leeds local education authority area schools affected by the strike, and Metro is advising parents and guardians to contact schools directly for information.

Members of the Transport and General Workers' Union called the strike over changes to pensions conditions by the company. Strikes are also planned for December 23 and Christmas Eve.

Buses run by other companies and by First Bradford will not be affected by the industrial action.

More information on buses and train timetables can be found on Metro's website, at (www.wymetro.com). Information on bus times is also available by calling Metroline on (0113) 2457676 and rail information can be found at (www.nationalrail.co.uk).

Bus passengers who have already bought a First Week Ticket and are affected by the strike on Monday will be able to claim a one day voucher by returning the ticket to First, Kirkstall Road, Leeds, LS3 1LH, after December 11.