The union said it wanted 'constructive' talks

Union ASLEF was halfway through a series of six one-day stoppages in a long running dispute over pensions with Midland Mainline.

East Midlands Trains took over the franchise on 11 November and had asked the union to return to negotiations.

ASLEF said it was optimistic about the new operator and was now hoping to enter positive talks.

During the strikes, which were held on Thursdays, no trains were scheduled from Leeds, Wakefield Westgate, Sheffield, Luton, Chesterfield or Nottingham.

Only five trains ran between Derby and St Pancras, with another five going in the opposite direction.