Passengers were breathing a sigh of relief today after the strike threat on York buses was lifted.

Union members working for First York have withdrawn the proposed ballot on industrial action after "a very successful meeting".

At the three-hour talks yesterday afternoon it is believed that improved offers were made on both loyalty bonuses and starting salaries.

"We have suspended the strike ballot pending further negotiations," said a spokesman for the Transport and General Workers Union.

"We had a very successful meeting yesterday afternoon and things have moved on significantly.

"There are still a few bits and pieces to iron out, but we are much more confident now that we can come to an agreement that is acceptable for our members.

"I think we are nearly there."

"This is extremely good news," First York managing director Brian Asquith told the Evening Press.

"Real progress is being made and we are looking forward to completing an agreement satisfactory to both sides.

"Hopefully we now we can got with the business of running buses."

First York workers had previously turned down a pay deal, claiming they wanted wages in parity with their colleagues in Manchester and Leeds. Wages are higher in those cities because of their size and the larger demand for public transport.

The last offer, a three per cent rise, was rejected 140 to 10.

In an anonymous letter to the Evening Press, First York drivers said "they just wanted to drive buses" and rejected suggestions they were greedy.

Updated: 15:09 Tuesday, June 26, 2001