HUNDREDS of train drivers are to be consulted about an improved pay offer.

East Midlands Trains, which runs services on the Crewe-Stoke-Derby line, has tabled the offer with 400 staff who had been refusing to work on Sundays.

The row has been brewing since November 2007 when union leaders started demanding better terms, pay and conditions for their members.

Now train drivers' union Aslef is discussing the offer with its members.

An Aslef spokesman said: "The revised offer will be put to members without a recommendation from the union's executive and the result of the consultation is expected within three weeks."

East Midlands Trains managing director Tim Shoveller said: "I am pleased to confirm that Aslef has suspended the planned strike action due to take place over the coming weeks."