A series of strikes over bus driver pay lasting nearly three months have come to an end after a pay rise was agreed.

Industrial action which began in October have now ended after union GMB and bus operator Stagecoach reached an agreement over a pay rise for drivers today (December 4).

According to GMB, the terms of the deal will see an 11 per cent pay rise for drivers, as well as a £150 bonus.

Laura Maughan, GMB organiser, said the union were happy bus drivers had gotten the pay they deserved, and were glad Stagecoach had reached this decision.

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The Northern Echo:

She said: "After a gruelling couple of months, Sunderland’s bus drivers have won themselves a double digit pay rise – the least they deserve. 

“GMB Union would like to thank the people of Sunderland for the support they’ve shown their drivers during this dispute – it means the world to them. 

“And Stagecoach deserves credit for eventually realising drivers’ worth and negotiating with them to reach a deal.” 

Meanwhile, the union have also said the pay rise, which three quarters of Stagecoach drivers have voted to accept, will be backdated to December 1.

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The Northern Echo:

Almost 200 bus drivers have taken part in the industrial action since October over the pay dispute. 

The bus drivers had been striking over what they said was a "real-terms pay cut", which constitutes a pay rise which does not match the rate of inflation.

With today's result, GMB have said strike action will now end.

Stagecoach have confirmed an agreement has been reached and welcomed the news.

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Steve Walker, managing director for Stagecoach North East, said: “We’re pleased to have reached a positive agreement with GMB on a pay deal that has now been fully accepted by their members. 

“We’re very proud of our team, who do a great job in delivering vital transport connections for our communities.

"Today’s agreement means that we can now focus on the future ahead and making sure we deliver the best possible service for our passengers in Sunderland.“