Drivers at Stagecoach’s Lancashire depot will hold a series of strikes between May 11 and June 1 in a dispute over pay.

The bus operator has confirmed it will continue to operate the majority of routes during the six days of action.

Bus drivers have rejected a pay rise of 5.2 per cent over 24 months and have called for an increase of 4.8 per cent over 12 months.

Unite the Union has confirmed its members will stage strikes after both parties have failed to reach an agreement.

Stagecoach has drafted in extra staff to minimise disruption to routes and services will run a a reduced frequency until 7pm.

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Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire Managing Director Rob Jones said: “We’re disappointed that the union has chosen this course of action which will only serve to disrupt our customers.

“We have made a very fair offer and we don’t believe strike action will achieve anything other than to inconvenience local people.

“However we have a comprehensive contingency plan in place and will do everything we can to minimise the impact on our customers.”

The expected strike days are: Saturday May 11; Tuesday May 14; Saturday May 25; Tuesday May 28; Friday May 31; Saturday June 1.

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Full details can be found on Stagecoach’s website or on Twitter at @StagecoachMCSL

Unite the Union have been approached for comment.