BOSSES at Arriva Trains Northern today hit back over claims of "bullying" at talks to avert strike action.

Arriva director of corporate communications Julian Evans emphatically rejected the claims, which came after crunch talks broke down in York yesterday.

Stan Hershel, regional organiser at The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) claimed Arriva had tried to force the union into a further meeting on Thursday, or it would withdraw a pay offer.

The company has offered a three per cent cost of living increase and a five per cent productivity rise, but the union is pressing for 18 per cent.

Conductors and guards, fuming at pay increases to drivers, are set to walk out on January 24 and 25.

Mr Hershel said: "I have never known such acrimonious talks in a long time.

"I am also greatly concerned that Arriva has resorted to bullying and intimidation by inviting us to a meeting on Thursday, and saying that if the RMT does not accept Arriva's demands, the offer would be withdrawn.

"The situation is very disappointing as we have worked hard to avert the inconvenience to passengers which will be caused through strike action, which now seems to be inevitable."

But Mr Evans said: "We would dispute any claims of bullying. We believe we have made a fair offer. We hope to sit down with them again on Thursday."

Updated: 11:50 Wednesday, January 16, 2002