First bus drivers in Aberdeen are edging closer to a strike after rejecting a new pay deal.

A total of 256 drivers turned down the proposals to cut their wages and scrap paid breaks, with only four accepting.

The company has outlined the plans following a reduction in passenger numbers across the city.

A meeting is due to be held involving the firm and Unite the Union representitives next week, with a postal ballot scheduled if negotiations continue to stall.

A driver for the firm said the majority are in favour of a strike.

He said: "Drivers are happy that there has been such a resounding response to the company in what has been the strongest turnout for a workplace ballot in many years.

"They hope by having such a strong response that this will push the company to think again about the deep cuts to drivers.

"However, if the company does not propose significant change, there will be a postal ballot held and the feeling is that there will be a large majority in favour of an all-out strike."

Under proposals seen by STV News, drivers who have up to one year's service would be paid £9.50 an hour while those who have been working for more than four would get £10.85.

Paid breaks would be scraped, with drivers being offered a maximum of two that would be unpaid.

Drivers could also be on the road for up to ten hours each day while holiday entitlement would also be reduced.

First Aberdeen managing director Andrew Jarvis said: "We were disappointed by the result of the ballot and are due to meet Unite representatives next week for further talks."