A STRIKE by up to 100 Metrolink drivers is set to cause major disruptions to tram services in the New Year.

Services between Bury and Manchester could be thrown into chaos from January 1, when industrial action is due to start.

Around 100 of Metrolink's 160 drivers were involved in a ballot by the ASLEF union, which is demanding recognition from Metrolink bosses.

The result was 100 per cent in favour of taking action, which could take the form of a series of 24-hour walkouts.

A spokesman for Serco Metrolink, said: "As soon as we are told of the official strike dates we will be issuing revised timetables, based on our assessment of staff numbers and likely passenger usage.

"We are also making arrangements to ensure staff can get into work."

Metrolink said it regretted the stance taken by ASLEF members, but pointed out it had inherited a single union recognition agreement with the TGWU, giving the union exclusive negotiating rights for all Metrolink staff.

The spokesman added: "We wholeheartedly embrace the union concept and have unrivalled good relations with the union movement across its range of contracts."

Public transport travellers could face more setbacks in January as bus drivers from First Manchester in Bury are taking part in a ballot for industrial action after the company introduced changes to holiday periods and shift rotas.

Under the new scheme, shift patterns would no longer be posted months in advance which could mean drivers, in some cases, would not know when they were expected to work until one week before.

But a spokesman for First was hopeful any industrial action could be averted.

"A deal has been reached and put to the membership. There are still final points to be discussed, and the parties are still talking. However, this might not stop the membership balloting."

Balloting will finish on January 5.