Disruptions Loom as Avanti West Coast Train Staff Strike Over Pay Disparities

Passengers using Avanti West Coast trains face significant disruptions as RMT union staff stage a second walkout this week amid disputes regarding rest day pay. This strike coincides with many commuters returning to work after the holiday break, raising concerns about travel arrangements. RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch highlighted that while train companies pay their own managers extravagant wages for working off days, union members continue to earn far less. Avanti has expressed disappointment over the strike and urged travelers to verify their train schedules.

On Thursday, Avanti plans to run a limited schedule, with one train per hour to destinations such as Wolverhampton, Birmingham, Crewe, and Manchester, and no services available to North Wales, Blackpool, and Edinburgh. The strike actions are set to continue, with RMT members planning regular Sunday strikes from January 12 to May 25.

The RMT criticized the current pay structure that allows management to earn around £500 per shift, significantly more than the train managers who are on strike. This wage disparity highlights broader issues such as staff shortages and the reliance on overtime. Initially intended strikes around Christmas were postponed following last-minute revised proposals which were rejected by a majority of the members involved. Avanti West Coast remains open to negotiations with the RMT to address these ongoing issues.