Planned strikes that would have affected rail journeys to Gatwick airport over the bank holiday weekend have been suspended.

Drivers on the Gatwick Express, who are members of the Aslef union, were due to walk out on Friday and next Tuesday, August 29, in a dispute over pay.

But Gatwick Express management said today the two planned strikes, plus another stoppage due on September 8, had been suspended while a new pay offer was considered.

Gatwick Express managing director Peter Cotton added: "We are glad that further discussions with Aslef are taking place and are optimistic an agreement can be reached without any strikes being held."

Gatwick Express operates a 30-minute non-stop service between London Victoria and the airport.