A threat of strike action which could have ground Scotland’s railways to a halt has been lifted after union members settled their pay dispute. 

Around 300 Scotrail general workers and engineers have voted “emphatically” to accept a 4.5 per cent pay offer, ending the chance of industrial action.  

The Union Unite, had said its members could walk out in September after balloting for strike action in July.  

Unite is the first of the rail unions to declare its members' position on the pay offer.  

Train drivers’ union Aslef, whose members have been working to their contracted hours – with no overtime or working on days off since July – is currently considering an improved offer from the publicly-run company.  

The strike threat has been lifted The strike threat has been lifted (Image: PA)

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite’s Scotrail membership have given their overwhelming support to a decent wage deal.   

“We are pleased to have successfully negotiated a significant boost to our members’ take-home pay.”  

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Unite represents workers who provide maintenance, overhaul and repair services for the railway rolling stock. 

The Union says that if this ‘safety critical’ work is not carried out, then the nation’s railway network cannot effectively operate.  

Pat McIlvogue, Unite industrial officer, said: “The Scotrail pay offer is a credible one. It provides a solid platform for securing better jobs, pay and conditions going forward.”