UNOFFICIAL strike action is still expected to cripple train services on New Year's Eve.

The Evening Press reported last week that Arriva conductors were planning to call in sick in protest against salary levels.

It would effectively halt services between York, Leeds, Harrogate and Manchester.

A spokesman for the Rail Maritime and Transport union said: "As far as I am aware, this action is still expected to go ahead.

"Nothing is official and the union cannot condone this action."

A ballot for official industrial action is being carried out, but a strike could not legally be conducted before January 15.

An Arriva spokeswoman said she would not talk about negotiations between the company and staff.

Updated: 10:12 Saturday, December 29, 2001