Londoners are being urged to consider other modes of transport during the bus strike. Picture: Clive Gee/PA Wire

Bus users are being advised to consider all modes of transport today, as bus strikes affect close to a third of services.

Members of Unite the Union at a number of bus companies across the capital walked out this morning for a 24 hour strike.

The dispute centres on Unite’s aim of securing a £500 bonus for bus workers on duty during the London 2012 Games.

More than a third of bus services are running, according to Transport for London (TfL), but many routes are disrupted.

TfL urged Londoners to check its website for up-to-date information on bus services. Information is also being provided on TfL’s 2,500 roadside countdown signs, and on Twitter through @TfLTravelAlerts.

During the course of the strike bus passes will be accepted on reasonable alternative routes on Tube, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), and London Overground – affected passengers should seek assistance from staff at the gate lines.

People are advised to try and use alternative modes of transport or walk in areas where bus services are affected.

London Buses staff and volunteers from across TfL will be on the streets and at key transport hubs across the capital today to provide travel advice and distribute walking maps.

TfL is operating a full service across the Tube network, and on the DLR, London Tramlink and London Overground, with extra staff on hand to assist passengers.

Marshalled taxi ranks will operate at key rail hubs including Victoria, St Pancras, Waterloo, Liverpool Street and London Bridge.

Peter Hendy, transport commissioner, said: “It is now clear that the leadership of Unite were intent on a strike all along.

“They have pursued this unnecessary course of action despite an extra £8.3million being brokered by the Mayor that would allow every bus driver in London in a garage where one or more routes were affected by the 2012 Games to gain, over the 29 days of the competitions, about £500.

“Despite additional offers to supplement this from the bus companies the Unite leadership have refused to defer the strike to give time for further negotiations or for any of the offers to be put to their members. I’m sorry that Londoners are therefore going to be disrupted today.

“We are now working together with our partners to ensure that Londoners and visitors have alternative travel options and the necessary advice to enable them to get around.

“I would advise everybody to use other transport services, to consider walking and cycling for shorter journeys and to check before travelling at www.tfl.gov.uk/buses.”