First Manchester bus strike: Manchester passengers have their say on the disruption as more dates loom

Strike action is once again taking place at First Manchester in an ongoing row with the firm. It comes as staff get into a dispute over pay and working conditions.

The industrial action has already caused widespread disruption to services across Greater Manchester with more strike days planned. School runs have also been affected.

The next strike day is planned for Thursday 20 January and next week there are walk-outs planned for Monday 24 January and Wednesday 26 January.

That includes school services and the Yellow School Bus.

Some school routes will be covered by alternative providers and anyone affected is advised to seek information on the Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) website.

Customers with pre-bought tickets for strikes dates will be given a refund or replacement tickets to use for future travel.

We took to the streets of Manchester on Tuesday to ask bus travellers for their thoughts in our video report.

What has the bus firm said?

Ian Humphreys, managing director of First Manchester, said: “Despite further talks and the efforts we have already made to meet what we were told were agreed demands, union officials have informed us the strikes will go ahead.

“I would like to apologise sincerely to all our customers in advance for the disruption and inconvenience this action will cause but want them to be aware of the situation so they can make plans for journeys they have to make on these days.”

Unite said the company had created a sticking point by refusing to backdate any pay increase.