A bus strike threatens to put a spanner in the works of the smooth running of York's high-profile Ecofin weekend.

Staff at Rider York have called off this Saturday's action - but a second strike planned for next Saturday, in the middle of Ecofin - is still on the cards.

Union members will be balloted on a two-year pay deal next Thursday.

If the package put together by Rider York management is thrown out, 210 drivers and engineers of the York bus firm plan to walk out on Saturday - in the middle of one of the most important weekends in York's recent history.

Dignitaries from across Europe will descend on York to attend the conference of European Finance ministers. More than 2,000 journalists will be in the city to cover the event - giving York a unique chance to promote itself to the world.

David Pearson, transport procurement officer for City of York Council, who liaises with local bus companies to arrange services in York, said any action would "undoubtedly cause difficulties" over what is expected to be a hectic weekend.

"If it does happen we will have to look at the problem and address these difficulties the best we can," said Mr Pearson. "We hope that the action does not take place."

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of York Tourism Bureau, said: "We regret any disruption to the services in the city, particularly at the time of Ecofin when we are attempting to show the most positive aspects of York."

Mark Hill, of the Anti-Maastricht alliance, which is organising anti-single currency demonstrations in York during the Saturday of Ecofin, said the bus strike was more likely to cause problems for football fans and shoppers than anti-Europe campaigners.

Ronnie Morrison, regional industrial organiser for the TGWU, said it was a coincidence the strike date coincided with Ecofin.

However, he said he was hopeful the pay dispute could be resolved. He said originally staff were being offered a 0.2 per cent pay increase - now they want a settlement for 1997 and this year.

Brian Asquith, general manager for Rider York, said he was hopeful a strike could be averted with talks between management and staff representatives taking place next week.

He said: "It is going to take some time to work through what we will present to them because we hope to put together a package which is more in line with what we feel they require."

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