BUS drivers are stepping up their pay dispute with strikes planned for Friday July 7 and Monday July 10.

Stagecoach Ribble drivers have already held seven one-day strikes as part of their long-running dispute with company bosses.

Drivers based at depots in Blackburn, Burnley, Clitheroe, Preston and Chorley last week decided against all-out strike action but agreed to hold more one-day stoppages.

The dispute started after Stagecoach Ribble Drivers claimed they are paid less than Stagecoach drivers in other parts of the country.

Management has offered a pay increase of three per cent over 12 months or four per cent over 16 months, but union officials say it is not a reasonable offer.

The strikes have already caused widespread disruption although skeleton services have continued to run on major routes and councils have replaced some school bus services to primary schools.