TALKS between union ASLEF and employers First North Western are to be held tonight in a bid to avert a rail strike this weekend.
The stoppage on Saturday and Sunday will be the first of a series intended to cripple services each weekend until November 23-24.
It follows several midweek strikes recently despite an offer to increase train drivers' pay by 19 per cent over three years.
Vernon Barker, First North Western's managing director, said, "ASLEF has agreed to meet me in Manchester.
"We are hopeful of making progress in the dispute following our successful request to bring the meeting forward.
"This gives us more time ahead of the weekend to try and reach an agreement.
"This weekend is vital for us and our passengers.
"Not only do we aim to run a service for all customers but also to provide trains for many visitors heading for Blackpool, either for the illuminations or the Labour Party conference.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article