UNDER-FIRE train operator Northern has been hit with further problems after staff announced three days of strikes.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) says its members will not work for 24-hours on June 19, 21 and 23.

Union general secretary Mick Cash said: “We have seen over the past fortnight that Northern is a company which has declared war on its passengers and staff alike.

"RMT will not stand aside while the threat to axe safety critical guards from Northern services remains central to the company plans."

In response to the announcement, Richard Allan, Northern’s deputy managing director, said: “Northern is working extremely hard to stabilise and provide certainty in delivering a reliable train service on those parts of our network affected by recent very significant disruption and cancellations.

“We have apologised repeatedly and extensively to customers, are working urgently on our additional customer compensation offer, and our energy and focus is on providing a better service for customers."