THOUSANDS of commuters face further disruption following the announcement of another strike.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) workers union at Southern Rail will walk out for 24 hours on April 4.

The strike by guards and drivers is part of the on-going disputes over the introduction of driver-only trains.

The announcement comes as RMT continues to press Southern for a firm date for talks over the future role of guards on trains.

The union has said that it would reconsider its action to allow for those talks to take place.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “RMT members on Southern Rail have been fighting for safety and access for nearly a year now and it is disgraceful that we have continued to be carved out of the talks process.

"That is a kick in the teeth for our members. This dispute needs to be pushed forwards and RMT would be prepared to reconsider our action if we get a commitment to a firm date for genuine and meaningful talks.

“All parties should be at the negotiating table and RMT’s continued exclusion means we have no option but to press ahead with further industrial action.”

“It is now down to Southern/GTR, and the contract holders in the government, to face up to their responsibilities and engage in genuine and serious talks that address our issues.”

More to follow...