THE TUC could help broker a deal ahead of a second planned strike by around 80 Metrolink drivers.

Bosses say they were able to operate 75 per cent of their normal New Year's Day services during the first 24-hour stoppage in a row over union recognition.

The action was taken by staff who belong to ASLEF, which represents around half of Metrolink's 160 drivers.

Another 24-hour strike is scheduled for Saturday, January 17. But system operators Serco Metrolink are hopeful that the dispute will be resolved before that date.

ASLEF members are trying to win recognition from Metrolink. However, the company says they inherited a single union recognition agreement with the TGWU, giving that union exclusive negotiating rights for all Metrolink staff, including drivers.

And bosses also claim that ASLEF had earlier agreed not to seek recognition at Metrolink without the prior consent of the TGWU. This followed talks between both unions and the TUC.

Now, the company has asked the TUC to intervene in the row and to hold talks with the two unions involved in a bid to reach an agreement.

Meanwhile, Serco Metrolink managing director Phil Smith has thanked passengers for their patience and support during the New Year's Day strike.

Metrolink was able to run about three-quarters of last year's service.

Mr Smith said: "We will use the findings from the January 1 strike to prepare and improve the service levels should the next scheduled strike date go ahead.

"However, we are hopeful that a resolution will be reached by all parties prior to the next date."