STRIKE-hit passengers are being advised to check before they travel this weekend after a train company laid on 180 buses.

First North Western (FNW) has provided the extra transport following confirmation that drivers who are members of the union ASLEF will walk out again on Saturday and Sundaytoday and tomorrow.

FNW usually provides 1,500 trains on Saturday and 500 on Sundays, carrying between 30,000 and 100,000 people.

Therefore the buses will not be able to provide as adequate service as a full rail time table. FNW runs the East Lancashire line from Preston to Colne, and Clitheroe to Manchester.

Vernon Barker, FNW managing director, urged passengers to travel only if necessary.

He said: "We are doing our best to provide suitable replacement services. However, for the mobility impaired or those with heavy luggage, buses will not be as easy to use as trains.

"It is also worth remembering that journey times will be extended, especially if there is traffic congestion."

Talks between the company and union broke down last Wednesday. No further meetings have yet been arranged. FNW has offered a 19 per cent pay rise, linked to productivity measures, which would give drivers an annual salary of £28,000 by January 26, 2004. The deal was accepted by ASLEF on July 26, but later rejected.

Mr Barker added: "This is an excellent offer, and I urge the union, as I did on Wednesday, to hold a second ballot of its members, or to agree to arbitration."

More strikes are planned every weekend until November 23 and 24.

Passengers should call the National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50 or First North Western's customer relations on 0845 600 11 59, for information.