A BUS company has said there is no evidence that buses are hitting a bridge after sacking a branch secretary, which has sparked the threat of strikes in the city.

Declan Clune, a Southampton bus branch secretary for the RMT Union was dismissed by his employer, Bluestar, after he reported concerns around a bridge being struck by vehicles to Network Rail.

Although there is said to be a “loud banging noise” when buses pass underneath, there is no explanation to why this could be.

At his recent appeal against his sacking, bosses upheld their decision, claiming that the act brought the company into disrepute. 

A Bluestar spokesperson said: “Whilst I am aware of this issue, I am unable to comment on individual employee matters.

“However, I would like to confirm that we take the safety of our drivers and customers extremely seriously, and have fully investigated this matter.

“We have found no evidence whatsoever that the bus came into contact with the bridge.”

Now though drivers could take industrial action after bus union, RMT, confirmed that it has declared a dispute over the “victimisation” of Declan.

The union said it will be balloting bus driver members to strike and take other forms of industrial action.

Tey are also launching a “high-profile” publicity campaign including demonstrations to get the secretary reinstated. 

General Secretary, Mick Cash, called on Bluestar to reverse the decision, branding the sacking “a disgrace”.

“As workplace representatives selflessly come to the aid of members without a second thought it is every member’s responsibility to come to theirs when attacked.

“A Director’s Review of the matter of the dismissal has now been granted and our officials will be putting a strong case for reinstatement and to right this wrong. 

“The company should seize this opportunity to reinstate Declan rather than provoking an industrial dispute and action by our members.”

The union claimed Bluestar has denied failing to adhere to its own procedure and decided that the secretary’s act could influence opportunities for further business. 

Concerns over the reporting of safety issues are now set to be raised with Network Rail, the Office of Rail and Road, Traffic Commissioner, HSE and relevant local authorities.

RMT’s National Executive Committee has considered the matter and reaffirmed the union’s commitment to supporting and campaigning for the reinstatement.