TRANSPORT: The Manchester Metrolink dispute has ended with more than 600 tram workers accepting an improved payment offer.

Unite members had voted to strike before they were offered the 6.5 per cent pay rise and a one-off £1,000 payment.

General secretary Sharon Graham said workers had left the employer with no option but to return to the negotiating table.

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HOSTILE ENVIRONMENT: A Windrush scandal campaigner fears the Home Office are running down the compensation scheme.

Windrush 75 network convener Patrick Vernon has warned thousands could miss out after the closure of the unit set up to reform the department in the wake of the scandal at the end of the month was reportedly announced to staff.

The Home Office said the compensation scheme will stay open as long as needed.

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LOCKDOWN FLOUTERS: Tories filmed flouting lockdown rules at a 2020 Christmas party were among 30 who received an invitation to “jingle and mingle” at party headquarters, according to the BBC.

Scotland Yard is investigating a video of dancing revellers joking about bending the rules when indoor socialising was banned on December 14.

The Conservative Party said four people were disciplined over the event, held on behalf of failed London mayor hopeful Shaun Bailey’s campaign team.

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TRAM DEATHS: The driver involved in the Croydon tram disaster was cleared of health and safety offences today.

 Seven passengers died and 21 others were seriously injured in the catastrophic derailment in November 2016.

Jurors at the Old Bailey took less than two hours to unanimously acquit Alfred Dorris, 49, who had denied having a micro-sleep, of failing to take reasonable care for himself and his 69 passengers.

Transport for London and Tram Operations Ltd face sentencing.