Passengers across England, Scotland, and Wales are set to face travel turmoil this Saturday as train drivers from 14 different companies go on strike over pay and conditions. The Aslef union’s latest wave of industrial action means less than half of the trains will operate, with some journeys subject to short-notice cancellations.

Businesses, including major names in the hospitality sector, are urgently calling for a resolution to the year-long rail industry dispute, estimating potential losses of up to £400 million. Concerns heighten as Aslef members plan strikes on October 4, and a five-day overtime ban from Monday to Friday.

Notably, pubs and restaurants, including Rick Stein, Greene King, Revolution Bars, and Fuller’s, are urging a commitment to avoid strikes during Christmas, a crucial period for their workforce. Aslef’s secretary general, Mick Whelan, warns of possible Christmas strikes, claiming a lack of interest in resolution from rail companies.

Train companies emphasise varying service levels on Saturday, affecting England, Scotland, and Wales. The affected companies include Avanti West Coast, LNER, Southern, Gatwick Express, and others.

Bus Disruption in the Northeast:

Simultaneously, Go North East, the region’s largest bus company, faces a seven-day strike starting tonight, impacting areas including Consett, Gateshead, Hexham, Percy Main (North Shields), Sunderland, and Washington.

Public frustration mounts on social media over transportation woes and financial losses for workers. The strike follows unsuccessful negotiations between Go North East and drivers, prompting concerns about the lack of an improved offer despite the parent company, Go-Ahead Group, reporting nearly £85 million in profits.

The strikes are scheduled for two periods, starting September 30 to October 6 and October 14 to October 20. Unite, representing drivers, warns of further action if a satisfactory settlement is not proposed.

Despite Go North East offering an improved pay offer of 9.5%, Unite demands a 13% increase on top of the 10% received last year. Go North East expresses regret over Unite’s dismissal of the revised offers and its determination to proceed with the strike.

During the strike, Go North East buses, except contracted school services, will cease operations, leaving communities without essential services. ’