Hundreds of Manchester workers from different sectors took part in strike action on Wednesday, gathering for a rally in St Peter’s Square.
Union members in Greater Manchester came together in the city centre as hundreds of thousands of workers participated in strikes across the country.
Train stations across Manchester and Salford were closed off completely including Salford Central and Victoria station.
A number of train drivers, representing the union ASLEF (Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen), outlined their reasons for striking.
ASLEF Council Representative and train driver Alan Moss said it was important that the union members expressed their right to strike.
Mr Moss said: “This is about the cost of living crisis, protecting our terms and conditions and ensuring our members are safe.”
Teachers, government staff and university staff were amongst those in attendance in Central Manchester.
John Morgan, President of Manchester Trade Union Council, said that wage increases to match inflation and more public funding were key motivations for the strikes.
Mr Morgan said: “We have lost our pay gradually over the last 10-20 years… all people are asking for is something that will keep their heads above water.”
Rail strikes are set to continue until February 4, as well as another day of strike on Saturday February 11.
The strikes have resulted in the full suspension of all Northern train services on 1st and 3rd of February, with partial services on 2nd and 4th February.
Earlier today, the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) announced that it had received a revised offer from Network Rail, with a decision to be announced in due course.