Transport for London (TFL) is preparing a team of ambassadors to counteract planned tube strikes.

It plans to deploy these members of staff throughout underground stations to enable them to stay open, should the industrial action take place in February. Over 1,000 workers have signed up to become ambassadors, who have all been trained to carry out duties and are fully licensed. TfL states that other volunteers will also offer support should the walkout happen. 

Phil Hufton, London Underground's chief operating officer, commented: "Should a strike go ahead, we're determined to keep London moving and open for business and our TfL ambassadors will play an important role."

The strike action is being threatened by the RMT union, who are unhappy at the proposals to close ticket offices in underground stations. Two 48-hour walkouts are planned to take place at midday on February 4th and February 11th. Staff are also expected to refuse to collect fares and sell tickets during two-hour intervals on three other days.