MEMBERS of the RMT union at train operator First Great Western are set to walk out for 24 hours this weekend.

The latest action as part of a dispute over the future upgrade of the fleet will see workers walk out at midnight, overnight on Saturday into Sunday morning. 

Yesterday (THURS), union reps and First Great Western failed to reach agreement to prevent the action after two days of talks. 

Members were notified on Thursday afternoon that planned strike action on Sunday would go ahead before talks resume again on Monday, and both drivers and guards, will walk out for 24 hours on Sunday and for 72 hours from August 29.

Other union members who work for the train operator in maintenance will strike on August 29 and 31.

The union is in dispute over the introduction of new Hitachi inter city trains, saying the role of guards will be reduced and buffet cars' facilities removed.

Writing to members on Thursday, RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “Talks will restart next week, but all this action remains on. Thank you for supporting your union until now during this dispute and I look forward to this continuing until our goals are achieved.”

A spokesman for First Great Western said that there would be slightly fewer trains running on Sunday, which would be operating to an amended schedule. 

He said: "We have held a positive meeting with the RMT today and while, disappointingly, no agreement has been reached, we plan to meet again on Monday. 

“This means that the strike action planned by the RMT on Sunday is likely to go ahead. Trains will run to an amended timetable, with around 70 per cent of our regular Sunday service running. 

“The brand new Super Express Trains will deliver more seats, faster journey times and more frequent journeys for our passengers. Our plans mean more train managers and customer hosts on board our trains, not less."

Industrial action is also scheduled to take place over bank holiday weekend from Saturday until Monday if talks collapse next week.

First Great Western advises that all customers should check train times during the strike period before they travel at www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk/strike.