After announcing strike action earlier this week, rail union RMT has now suspended the plans for South Western Railway to allow for further talks.

The strike was due to take place between Monday, March 9 and Friday, March 13.

RELATED: Further strike action planned for South Western Railway

RMT said today (Wednesday, March 4) that it has suspended strike action 'in good faith' to allow further talks to take place on Friday, March 6.

South Western Railway guard, commercial guard and train driver members are now instructed to work as usual on the dates.