RATTLED Cross Country rail bosses were accused yesterday of threatening to call the police on officials handing out fact sheets explaining a strike ballot.

RMT union general secretary Mick Cash said the firm’s managers had resorted to “threats and indimidation” in a letter warning that staff at Edinburgh Waverley station who distributed the handouts could face action under railway byelaws.

Workers are being balloted over the dismissal of revenue inspector Charlie Letham, who was sacked for missing his targets while suffering “medical and personal” problems.

His GP and company doctor had made several recommendations to help him in the workplace that were ignored by bosses, his union said.

Mr Cash said RMT was “appalled” at the attempt to gag its members.

“Charlie Letham has been a loyal union member for 15 years and has done everything he can to continue working in his normal capacity,” he said.

“However, Cross Country management decided that the easiest solution was to dismiss.”