The United Auto Workers union has ended its strike action at General Motors after reaching a deal in contract talks.

Work at GM’s American plants has resumed today and the final details of the negotiated deal with workers will begin this week.

GM said the new contract included the setting up of an independent trust to cover the cost of retiree health care.

More than 73,000 GM workers had walked out on Monday.

Rick Wagoner, GM chairman and chief executive, said: "This agreement helps us close the fundamental competitive gaps that exist in our business.

"The projected competitive improvements in this agreement will allow us to maintain a strong manufacturing presence in the United States along with significant future investments."