EAST COAST is to offer free food and drink to first class passengers from May.
The rail operator, which was taken back into public ownership last year when franchisee the National Express Group stopped providing financial support, will start offering free meals in first class from the launch of the new summer timetable on May 22.
It will serve hot breakfasts on weekdays before 1000, sandwiches and snacks between 1000 and 1600 (and after 1900), and an evening meal from 1600 to 1900.
Complimentary wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks will also be offered. An "all-day light menu" will be served at weekends.
The company says it will invest almost £10 million in modifying catering cars and training staff, but estimates the new service will generate about £23 million of extra revenue per year. Its research indicates that "between 12 and 28 per cent of standard class customers would be encouraged to trade up to first class, depending on the ticket type". Virgin Trains also offers free food in first class.
East Coast has also upgraded its wifi service, although it is no longer free for standard passengers. After an initial 15-minute free period, it costs £4.95 for an hour or £9.95 for 24 hours.