STRIKE action has been suspended on the railway this week in a bid to facilitate talks.

RMT members at Network Rail were due to take industrial action on Monday and today, Wednesday November 9, before suspending strikes to allow further negotiations over pay and conditions.

ScotRail has been working since the weekend to restore a full timetable as the strikes were due to cripple the railway by shutting down infrastructure.

Mick Lynch, RMT general secretary, said: "The threat of strike action and our strongly supported industrial campaign has made the rail employers see sense.

"We have always wanted to secure a negotiated settlement and that is what we will continue to push for in this next phase of intensive talks.

"Our priority is our members, and we are working towards securing a deal on job security, a decent pay rise and good working conditions.

"Our re-ballot remains live and if we have to take strike action during the next six months to secure a deal, we will."

The dispute remains live and the union is re-balloting members to secure a fresh mandate for action with the result due on November 15.

It is understood that this could still lead to strikes come December.

Customers continue to be urged to check their journeys in advance.

David Simpson, ScotRail service delivery director, said: "ScotRail welcomes the announcement that planned strike action on November 5,7 and 9 by RMT members at Network Rail has been suspended.

"Strike action does nothing for the railway's recovery or reputation at this fragile time. It impacts customers, staff, and the economy.

"We're now working hard to restore the timetable to normal as soon as possible, but this will take time."

He added: "We'd encourage anyone planning to travel by rail over the next few days to check their journey before travel on our website or social media channels."