Bus drivers threatening to disrupt services in and around Welwyn Hatfield have accepted a new pay offer from the University of Hertfordshire.

Before Christmas, drivers working for the Uno bus company, which reports to the university board, voted to reject two consecutive pay offers.

With the dispute aggravated by complaints about outdated and over-stretched vehicles, members of the Unite trade union were prepared to strike, but they accepted a fresh offer last week.

Regional Unite officer Steve Linger said: “The bus drivers, who number just under 200, have voted overwhelmingly by a margin of 78 per cent to accept the company’s latest offer. There will be no further industrial action.

“The deal is complicated, but it basically takes the drivers to £12 an hour, with some additional improvements, including a match-funded pension arrangement.”

James Thorpe, managing director of Uno Buses Ltd, said: “We are pleased an agreement has been reached with drivers as we take their views very seriously and value the huge contribution they make

“Uno’s aim is to provide an excellent service to the local community, and we are confident that this new deal will enable the company to further improve its performance.”