An end to the misery for Southern rail passengers moved one step closer today, after a deal was agreed in a long running dispute which has led to dozens of strikes.

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), parent company of Southern Railway, and train drivers' union ASLEF have announced they have approved new terms which, if approved by members, could spell an end to travel disruption.

The agreement will now be put to ASLEF members in a referendum, with the result to be announced on April 3.

However, the RMT, the union which represents train guards, says it has not seen the terms and is continuing to press for urgent talks with GTR.

General Secretary of ASLEF, Mick Whelan, said: "ASLEF members now have the opportunity to decide on the new terms of the agreed resolution with GTR Southern.

"This agreement has the full support of the negotiating team and the executive committee, and offers solutions to our concerns, as well as restoring the confidence of all parties, and the travelling public”.

GTR Director Andy Bindon said: “We’ve had constructive talks with ASLEF and we’re pleased we’ve been able to secure a recommended deal, subject to approval from its members, to end their dispute.

"It’s been an extraordinarily difficult period for passengers, staff and the regional economy and we are glad we’ve found a way to move forward together. We look forward to restoring good industrial relations with ASLEF”.

Over the past year the RMT, as a result of strikes over driver-only trains, more than 20,000 services have been cancelled and thousands more disrupted.