A strike by hundreds of train conductors is to go ahead after a two year pay offer aimed at settling a long running dispute was rejected.

Arriva Trains Northern has accused the RMT union of refusing even to consider the offer, which it said would add �1,000 to workers' salaries.

The union claimed the offer was worse than one tabled at the start of the dispute seven months ago.

Arriva management said strikes on Wednesday and again on Saturday will hit train services across Northern England at the start of the Bank Holiday weekend.

On behalf of our passengers, I appeal to the union to adopt a more constructive and realistic approach

Vernon Barker, First North Western

RMT general secretary Bob Crow said: "The company is now offering less money for our members to give up far more, and there is still no new money on the table."

Workers have been asked to accept compulsory overtime, take on cleaning duties and give up time for being on duty on New Year's Day, the union claimed.

Arriva has accused the union of refusing to allow its members a vote on the new offer, which it claims is worth at least 4% this year and 3% next year.

Managing director Ray Price said: "We are working hard to try and resolve this dispute and have made a number of very fair offers to the union, all of which have been rejected.

Arriva said 75% of its network will be covered by trains despite the strike, although it advised customers to check before travelling.

Further strikes

Saturday's walkout will be the 18th strike by the RMT against Arriva, making it one of the longest running rail disputes.

Meanwhile, management at train operator First North Western are considering their next move in an attempt to solve a pay dispute with the train drivers' union ASLEF.

Union officials walked out of talks arranged in Manchester on Monday by the conciliation service ACAS.

Vernon Barker, First North Western's managing director, said: "We have made an extremely good offer of a 19% pay increase over three years, a deal beyond the dreams of many workers.

"On behalf of our passengers, I appeal to the union to adopt a more constructive and realistic approach.

"Unless we can make progress soon, the threat of further 48-hour strikes on 27 and 28 August and 10 and 11 of September will become much greater."