RAIL union RMT confirmed that train managers at Avanti West Coast would strike on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in a dispute over payment for rest day working.

The on-board train managers at Avanti — deemed one of Britain’s most incompetent train operators — overwhelmingly rejected company proposals to settle the dispute and voted to strike.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: “Avanti West Coast created this dispute by ignoring train managers’ concerns and presenting offers those members deemed unacceptable.

“The company must come forward with a revised proposal so we can avoid more strike action further into 2025.”

The rejection followed Avanti management paying £300 or more to management grades to cover rest day working.

Train managers argue that Avanti has failed to address their concerns adequately.

Mr Lynch said RMT remains open to resolving the issue and urged Avanti to take immediate action.

Kathryn O’Brien of Avanti West Coast said: “We’re disappointed by the RMT calling strike action on December 31 and January 2.

“Our customers will face significantly disrupted journeys as a result.”