Striking teachers have reached an agreement with council bosses which will see a long-running dispute over cuts come to an end.

Teachers at secondary schools across West Dunbartonshire began industrial action in January with five schools across the local authority area closing while they picketed outside.

A further strike then got under way in March and teachers in the area picketed again over a two-day strike this week which saw them protest outside the council headquarters.

The dispute, ongoing for four months, centred on a decision by the council to cut the number of principal teachers at its schools as well as removing the role of deputy headteachers.

After talks between teaching union EIS and the council, a deal was reached this week.

Larry Flanagan, general secretary of the EIS, said: "Following talks we are pleased to have arrived at a situation where we are able to recommend to our members acceptance of a proposal which will see the vital role of subject principal teachers recognised within the new curriculum structure.

"EIS Members have shown a strong commitment throughout this campaign to achieve a model which will continue to deliver a high quality education to West Dunbartonshire pupils. These proposals will facilitate that.

"We are hopeful the proposal will be endorsed by our members who will be keen to get back to teaching and learning across West Dunbartonshire schools."

A spokeswoman for the council said: "I'm pleased we now have a proposal which takes account of the concerns raised on behalf of teachers, and will enable us to move forward together for our young people.

"Our teachers are fully committed to their roles and ensuring our young people attain and achieve, and I hope this proposal will allow us to resolve the dispute for the benefit of the young people of West Dunbartonshire."