The dispute began after the North East Ambulance Service decided not to pay staff during their meal breaks.

In response, the Unison union organised an over-time ban for some 450 ambulance workers.

Now, both sides have agreed to go to arbitration next week, and to implement whatever recommendations are made by an independent arbitrator.

Accept and implement

The director of human resources for the ambulance service, Chris Harrison, confirmed that both sides signed a new agreement on Friday.

He said: "The various positions will be put to the independent arbitrator on 27 June . He's expected to make a decision in two to three weeks time."

Ray McDermott from Unison said: "It means that we've agreed to go to arbitration and that we'll both accept the arbitrator's decision.

"Whatever is decided, we will accept and implement."