Last orders for train buffet cars

A rail passenger watchdog has criticised plans to scrap buffet cars on several routes from London to the west of England and Wales.

First Great Western said just one in eight passengers use the service and many liked being served at their seats.

The train operator is planning to replace the buffet cars with trolleys, similar to those on an aircraft.

But a spokesman for TravelWatch South West said the trains were too crowded for a trolley service.

'At-seat service'

Losing the buffet carriage would also cut about eight minutes off the average journey time, First Great Western said.

A spokesman added: "Most people prefer to be served at their seats rather than leave any coats or other possessions unattended.

"Therefore, for some of our high speed routes such as those between London and Bristol or London and Cardiff, we continue to look at other options such as providing a more comprehensive at-seat service instead of a buffet.

"Customers tell us that they would prefer the convenience of an improved at-seat service offering a range of high quality snacks and drinks."