A total of 12 companies are affected

The RMT has called off two 48-hour train strikes called for May in a dispute over safety.

The strikes, planned for 6 and 27 May, would both have followed bank holiday weekends.

But the union and 12 train companies have agreed to accept the independent Rail Safety & Standards Board's recommendations, due in the next few weeks.

The dispute centres on a change to the safety "rule book" whereby the driver now protects the train while the guard is responsible for passenger safety.

Previously both driver and guard were responsible for putting warnings on the line if there was a breakdown or accident.

The views of railway workers, who carry out the provisions of the rule book, will be heard RMT general secretary Bob Crow

General Secretary Bob Crow said the companies had agreed to consult the RMT and the train drivers' union Aslef before making any changes.

"The views of railway workers, who carry out the provisions of the rule book, will be heard," he said.

Mr Crow praised rail guards' "tremendous determination" in defending their role.

An Association of Train Operating Companies spokesman, which represents the rail firms affected by the dispute, said: "The dispute has been settled. This is good news for passengers."

There been three 24-hour stoppages in recent weeks, with the last taking place just before the Easter weekend, affecting both commuters and holidaymakers.

Worst hit were Wales & Borders, Central Trains and Wessex Trains but other companies were able to operate almost normally.

Other companies affected were Arriva Trains Merseyside, Central Trains, Connex South Eastern, South Central, Midland Mainline, ScotRail, Silverlink, Thames Trains, Virgin West Coast, Virgin Cross Country, Wales and Border and Wessex Trains.