KEIGHLEY Bus Company drivers walked out today in a dispute over pay.

Members of Unite the Union are striking after a claim for a 50p-an-hour rise was rejected.

The company is running temporary timetables for the day.

Phil Bown, regional officer with Unite the Union, said members' support for the action had been "solid".

There are over 180 drivers at Keighley, with about 98 per cent union membership.

Picket lines were set up this morning at locations including the bus station and depot.

"From the union's perspective it has been a successful day," said Mr Bown.

"Minimal services are operating, with the few non-union drivers and managers brought in from other areas.

"The cost of living has continued to rise but pay hasn't kept pace.

"Both the company's offers were below the rate of inflation.

"We have tried to resolve this issue but were forced into a situation where this was the only course of action left."

He added that as a result of the action, a meeting has been arranged for Monday with conciliation service ACAS.

The bus company has previously said it regretted the disruption the "unnecessary" action was causing to customers.

A spokesman said: "After many months of negotiation, our offer represents an hourly increase of up to 34p over two years for our drivers, who are already among the best paid in West Yorkshire.

"In addition, we have invested considerably in many new buses and other improvements to retain and attract customers and meet increasing demands for improved air quality, which helps to secure our future as a vital service to the people of Keighley.

"While we value the efforts of our colleagues, the union’s claim for a 50p-an-hour increase in a single year – as well as further overtime enhancements – represents up to a seven per cent rise which is simply unaffordable, particularly in Keighley where we are seeing fewer people travelling around the town. We cannot bear an increase far in excess of inflation."

Anetwork of services has been maintained – particularly to hospitals, schools and places of work – but it is advising passengers to check the revised timetables.

Keighley Bus Company was contacted for further comment today.