THE public face further ‘misery’ after striking bus drivers overwhelmingly rejected the latest pay offer from Arriva.

Hopes had been high that buses might return to the region’s roads on Wednesday (August 17) after Unite and GMB union members were balloted on the offer at the start of the week.

However, nearly 80 per cent of members voted against the offer with Arriva saying they were ‘incredibly disappointed’ and how it would inflict ‘misery’ on its customers.

A spokesman for Arriva said: “We are incredibly disappointed that Unite and GMB members have voted not to accept our latest pay offer, inflicting yet further disruption and misery on our customers in the North West.

Following the rejection of our latest pay offer today we agreed to meet the Union's pay demand in an attempt to end this strike action.  The Unions responded by significantly increasing their pay demand for the second time in this process. This brings into question their intentions.

The Unions are fully aware of the financial implications we face and the implications for our customers and local bus networks across the North West.

We will continue to do all we can to resolve this dispute as quickly as possible. We understand the detrimental impact this situation is having on our customers, our communities, our local economy - we urge the unions to reconsider their position, act in good faith and show a genuine willingness to resolve this dispute for the benefit of their members and our customers.”

The industrial action, which began on July 20, will now enter its fifth week, with no end seemingly in sight.

George Patterson, GMB regional organiser, said: “Working people are facing the worst cost of living crisis for a generation.

“These drivers are fighting for a fair pay rise to help them through it.

“We need something better from Arriva. Bus drivers need to know that they’ll be able to cover their bills.

“We won’t stop fighting for our members to get the decent pay they deserve.”

*On Wednesday afternoon a deal was agreed between the parties meaning drivers will return to work on Thursday (August 18).