COACH firm Ellisons Travel which are the official transport for Saints have apologised after being "duped" into carrying workers over the picket line in Jacob’s pay dispute.

Staff at Jacob's Bakery in Aintree have been striking over pay with workers saying their pay doesn’t reflect the current climate.

However, St Helens firm, Ellison’s Travel – who are the official transport for Saints, Liverpool Football Club and England Rugby Union - have come under scrutiny after being filmed transporting workers over the picket lines.

 

A tweet hitting out at the firm from @LisaGMB said: “Shame to see St Helens coach firm @EllisonsTravel transporting #strike breaking workers across the #picket line on 1st day of all out #strike action #jacobs bakery”

The travel firm have been heavily criticised online since the incident.

Ellison’s Travel issued an apology today via their social media today citing that they were Wduped" and the booking was made with "personal names and false pretences."

The statement read: “Initially may we offer our apologies to all employees at Jacob’s, Ian Byrne MP and GMB North West & Irish Trade Union and assure them of our full support in their action.

“As way of a background, the booking was made under personal names and false pretences. The destination address was advised as NHS stores L9 7BQ.

“We assure you at no time would we ever have knowingly taken any booking requiring our drivers and vehicles to cross picket lines.

“As it transpired, the driver was asked to turn right, not left at which point he found himself entering the Jacob’s site. The charade became all to apparent and unfortunately too late to rectify.

“The booking was immediately terminated upon full disclosure and all monies returned to UK Minibus hire.

“The M.D. is not happy to have been duped in this and is disgusted in the deceit and deception employed to facilitate our services.

“We sincerely hope the actions of the employer only strengthens the resolve of all.”