STRIKE action scheduled to take place at Alloa's Forth Valley College this week has been suspended.

Lecturers took downed tools on Thursday last week arguing there had been no significant progress made during negotiations.

Classes were cancelled at the Alloa college and further strikes were arranged for Tuesday and Wednesday this week.

However, Colleges Scotland and the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS), who represent the lecturers, announced a draft pay agreement after 12 hours of negotiations,.

Charlie Montgomery, salaries convenor EIS-FELA, said: "We are pleased to have made this breakthrough in the early hours that will set a sound foundation going forward."

"As a result, I am delighted to announce that the planned industrial action for Tuesday and Wednesday of this week has been suspended.

The proposals, which would see all FE lecturers in Scotland on equal pay by April 19, is likely to be accepted when put to ballot next month.

Shona Struthers, Chief Executive, Colleges Scotland said: "The Management Side has worked tirelessly to achieve this outcome which will see an end to any further disruption to students and start to address harmonisation of terms and conditions for college lecturers".