Thousands of public transport and utility workers have gone on strike across France, including here in Lille, throwing the transport system into chaos.

Rail unions have rejected a government offer for fresh talks despite moves from within their own leadership towards renewed negotiations.

A third strike day saw many people resorting to walking, cycling, roller-blading or even hitch-hiking along traffic-choked roads.

Friday saw a slight increase in the number of trains operating but two metro lines in Paris were closed completely, and only one in three buses was running.

Commuters faced long delays to board the crowded trains or buses in operation.

Unions are waiting for an agreement on the conditions under which talks between government, unions and employers can take place on reforms to the public sector pensions.

Students, teachers, civil servants and even magistrates may launch their own strike action, threatening to create a general wave of protest against economic hardship.

Tempers frayed on the gridlocked roads as commuters battled any way they could to get to and from work.