TALKS between union bosses and train operators will go ahead after threats of three days of new strike action.

Northern offered to enter into new discussions with the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) alongside mediation group ACAS and the union has accepted, but says progress must be made.

In a letter by RMT general secretary Mick Cash, seen by The Bolton News, he states: "These talks will need to be meaningful and meet our aspirations and objectives to retain a safety critical guard on every train.

"The National Executive Committee is prepared to review their decision on strike action depending on how the talks progress but are not prepared to call off the current action.

"After all Northern make these promises of ‘meaningful’ discussions and then treat your negotiators with contempt."

Northern managing director David Brown said the firm was only seeking "meaningful talks" over the role of conductors on its trains.

If no agreement can be reached, the RMT will go through with strikes on August 25, and September 1 and 8.