UNDER-fire train operator Arriva today revealed its timetable plans, should it be hit by strike action this week.

Chiefs at the company admit nearly all train services will be cancelled if industrial action called by The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) takes place on Thursday and Friday.

But the operator has moved to assure commuters that North Yorkshire's rail network will not grind to a complete standstill.

Conductors, furious at pay increases to drivers which they feel have not been offered to them, are set to walk out in protest.

At peak times on Thursday and Friday, the Hull to Bridlington, Hull to Leeds and Hull to Doncaster services will operate a limited service. Arriva managers estimate one service in four will run at peak times.

An hourly service will also run between York and Manchester Piccadilly.

The Scarborough to York service (0720 with 1745 return) and the Whitby school train will also be unaffected by the conductor dispute.

Buses which have been replacing some services since winter cuts were imposed on October 29 will continue to be provided.

Trains will be manned by conductor managers and supervisors during the dispute.

Arriva has assured commuters that all its staff which will work on January 24 and 25 are fully qualified as conductors.

A spokeswoman said: "Arriva Trains Northern (ATN) is continuing to be available for discussions at any time with the RMT in the hope that the union will agree to have further negotiations about the offer made by ATN to its conductors."

Updated: 10:21 Tuesday, January 22, 2002