TRAIN drivers union Aslef is to meet bosses of First North Western in a bid to head off 48-hour stoppages on the last two weekends before Christmas.

The union has announced strikes in their dispute over pay and conditions for December 14 and 15 and December 21 and 22.

Managing director Vernon Barker said: "I am pleased that Aslef has agreed to meet with me.

"We remain hopeful that the matter can be resolved before any strike action takes place."

The talks with the union are scheduled to take place on Thursday.