THOUSANDS of staff at bus company First Group are balloting for strike action against a widespread culture of bullying, their union Unite said today.

The estimated 3,500 staff, including drivers, engineers, clerical staff and cleaners, across Yorkshire are said to have been subjected to a “harsh disciplinary code” at First South Yorkshire.

Unite has also accused several managers of actively organising against trade unions and has said that the removal of two senior union workplace representatives at First West Yorkshire & North Yorkshire was politically motivated.

An internal appeal against the two dismissals will be taking place tomorrow and the union has written to the bosses of all Yorkshire branches of First Group to express its fears about escalating confrontation.

Unite regional co-ordinating officer Steve Clark said: “We have about 3,500 members working across these two First Group companies where they have been subjected to a systematic campaign of anti-trade union activities.

“There is a bullying culture that certain managers have generously contributed to in recent years.

“It is our view that there are a number of ‘bad apple’ managers working for First Group in Yorkshire who have colluded in creating this appalling employment relations’ climate.

“This is crunch week for First Group in Yorkshire — either there is a dramatic U-turn or we will proceed to industrial action ballots, which will include the option for strikes.

“If the strike action is voted for, this will cause massive disruption to bus services and the travelling public throughout Yorkshire.

“The ball, therefore, is very much in First Group’s court.”

First West Yorkshire managing director Paul Matthews said: “We have a good relationship with Unite and are continuing to work closely with it.”