First Bus passengers warned of major disruption today as drivers strike - full list of Greater Manchester services hit

Passengers in parts of Greater Manchester are being warned to expect disruption as bus drivers take industrial action. Members of Unite the Union working for First Bus Manchester are walking out today (July 7).

It's the third of six days of strike action to take place this month, following a 48-hour walkout on Monday and Tuesday this week. First Bus drivers will also walk out next Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

Eighteen services are impacted today, affecting passengers in the Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside boroughs. Passengers are urged to find alternative arrangements, such as Metrolink services.

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Union bosses claim drivers at First Manchester earn less than other bus companies in the area, while recent reports show that operating profits increased by more than £6 million to £226.8 million. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham previously said:“First Manchester’s profits continue to soar but the rates it pays its drivers are the worst in the region.

"The company’s inadequate pay offer is not enough to make up for sky high living costs or to plug the staff shortages that are making our members’ working lives a misery. Unite defends our members’ jobs, pay and conditions to the hilt and First Manchester’s drivers will receive all the support they need as they strike for a fair pay rise.”

Workers rejected a 7.4% pay offer, backdated to April, with a further 3.4% in October. Ian Humphreys, Managing Director of First Manchester, said last week that the strike action 'will be damaging to everyone and cause severe disruption'.

“The management team at First Manchester have been working hard to agree a pay settlement and