The BBC reports drivers at 12 rail operators are planning to strike early next month. It comes after action planned for this week (15 September) was postponed as a mark of respect following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Aslef union, which represents train drivers, said it would not comment on the situation until after the Queen’s funeral on Monday (19 September).

However, on Friday (16 September) David Horne, managing director of London North Eastern Railway, tweeted the operator had been notified by Aslef its drivers were planning strike action on 1 October and 5 October.

"We have suspended ticket bookings for these dates," said Horne. "We will review our plans and confirm asap which LNER services will run on these days."

Besides LNER, Aslef represents drivers working for Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry and Great Western Railway, among others – including several providing commuter services.

Members of two other rail unions, the RMT and the TSSA, have in recent months taken industrial action as part of the same dispute.