TRAFFIC chaos looks set to continue across Fareham and Gosport after a meeting between bus operator First Provincial and union officials failed to reach agreement.

The talks were aimed at thrashing out a pay agreement after drivers walked out in disgust over an 18p increase.

Transport and General Workers Union officials are demanding a 79p increase but say there were no concessions made by First Provincial at yesterday's marathon five-hour meeting.

TGWU spokesperson Hugh Kirkbride said: "Yesterday's meeting was very frustrating as no movement was made by First Provincial to bridge the gap.

"We offered several different options none of which were taken up. We just hope further talks will prove successful otherwise the strikes will unfortunately continue."

First Provincial spokesperson Marc Reddy confirmed the sides were still talking. He said: "At this stage we are continue to discuss all options and are exploring every avenue in the hope of resolving this issue, we hope to resume talks tomorrow."

If no progress is made at the second round of talks, drivers from Fareham, Gosport and Portsmouth look set to walk out on a third day of protest next Tuesday.

A further walk-out is also planned later in the month.