Aslef members want negotiation rights

Trams were operating on a reduced service on New Year's Day after the drivers went on strike at midnight in a row over union recognition.

They are unhappy that only the Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU) has negotiation rights for pay and conditions.

Aslef represents about a quarter of Metrolink's 340 staff.

The union's representative Colin Smith said: "We've got nothing against the TGWU, they're a fantastic trade union along with all of the trade unions, but we'd like recognition along with them."

But Metrolink has said if it begins talking to Aslef it could cause a strike by TGWU members.

The firm says the original agreement has the blessing of the TUC.

More Aslef strike action is currently planned over the next eight weeks.