South Western Rail strike called off to relief of Royal Ascot racegoers

A three-day South Western Railway strike which would have caused chaos for those travelling to Royal Ascot has been suspended.

The RMT Union said the walk-out, which was planned amid a dispute over the role of guards on trains, has been called off.

The decision to halt the strike came after talks between the union and rail bosses made "adequate progress".

Mick Cash, RMT General Secretary, said: "We hope that the talks can continue in a constructive manner and an agreement can be reached."

The strike would have resulted in severe disruption for the thousands of racegoers who flock to Ascot every day.

It would have coincided with the popular Gold Cup race at the Berkshire course.

RMT members are pressing ahead with a strike on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday on Arriva Rail North in the same dispute.