Race goers will face travel chaos on Grand National day after Merseyrail staff agreed to strike.
The threat of a restricted service for next month’s Aintree festival hung over discussions between transport bosses and union the RMT on Monday.
But after talks broke off without agreement, staff will now stage a fresh walk-out on April 8 – the day on which the world’s most famous steeplechase takes place.
Jan Chaudhry-van der Velde, Merseyrail’s managing director, had warned that further strikes would be ‘detrimental’ for commuters heading to the National.
Industrial action was called by the RMT last week, sparking disruption across the network’s lines and halting the entire service for a three-hour period.
The row centres on Merseyrail’s plans to introduce driver-only operated trains (DOO) from 2020, which will see 220 rail guards made surplus to requirement.
RMT General secretary Mick Cash said: “Merseyrail are completely ignoring the clear wishes of their own passengers, who overwhelmingly oppose the idea of Driver Only Operated trains on their network.
“That pig-headed attitude has forced the union’s hand and the idea that we would compromise on the fundamental issue of rail safety is absurd.
“The ball is now firmly in Merseyrail’s court.”
In addition to Merseyrail workers, staff from Arriva Northern and Southern Rail will also be striking on the day in protest at the opposition to DOO trains.