East Coast confirms it's the end of the line for the restaurant car

The company said the move was part of an "industry-leading" initiative to encourage passengers to travel by train instead of air.

Instead, the company will serve hot breakfasts to first class passengers on services before 10am and dinner between 4pm and 7pm, with sandwiches or salad at other times. The food will be included in the cost of a first class ticket.

East Coast says it will unveil its new menu early next year.

East Coast spokesman Gideon Fireman confirmed the restaurant car was being scrapped.

Asked if the price of first class tickets would rise to accommodate food and drink, he said: "Not in any connection with this, no. There is a separate pricing review, but that's not to do with this. This is part of the offer."

The company said its research suggested passengers would welcome the change.

What do you think? Log in and add your comment below.