BUS drivers in Glasgow are being asked to travel to Aberdeen to cover services during a strike.

First Bus drivers in the Granite City are striking over changes to their pay and conditions this week.

Union officials said the firm is drafting in staff and managers from Glasgow and elsewhere to cover shifts.

The local union representative said financial incentives were being offered while the company said only accommodation and expenses were being met.

Union leaders said First was “offering big pay outs” to bus drivers to go to Aberdeen.

Mike Flynn, Unite Aberdeen branch convenor, said: “There are drivers coming here from Glasgow.

“We know of at least eight and another 14 or so managers and supervisors from Glasgow driving buses in Aberdeen during the strike.

“They are being put up in nice hotels in the city centre and given £25 a day in allowances. We know there will be other enhancements thrown in as well.

“To have union members doing this disappoints us immensely. This is a bona fide strike and these people are crossing picket lines to make money. They have no scruples to come here and work while colleagues are on strike to protect their pay and conditions.

“If management dangle a carrot in front of some people they will bite.”

First said staff had been brought in to keep services running.

Andrew Jarvis, Managing Director for First Aberdeen: “To reduce inconvenience to customers whilst the strike action takes place, we have welcomed managers, supervisors, inspectors and office staff from other First Bus businesses who have travelled from our sister companies across the UK to assist us in keeping the network operational. These colleagues have been paid travel, training and time worked for providing this cover.

“I would like to thank everyone for their efforts in keeping our buses running during this period and we will continue to use all available resources including senior team members from the business behind the wheel’ driving and looking after our passengers.”