URGENT UPDATE: London North Eastern Railway (LNER) has confirmed the dismissal of train host Peter Duffy after he allegedly served sausage rolls retrieved from a bin to first-class passengers. The shocking incident took place on May 7, 2023, during a service departing from York.
Details are emerging about the serious breach of food hygiene standards that led to Duffy’s firing in July 2023. Reports indicate that Duffy, while working alongside a colleague, was seen retrieving food from a bin after it had been discarded. A fellow crew member raised concerns after hearing laughter from the kitchen, and upon inspection, found the bins empty despite previous claims that no sausage rolls were available.
A complaint was filed, revealing that two first-class passengers specifically requested sausage rolls. When the colleague asked about the missing food, a kitchen staff member indicated that the sausage rolls had been thrown away. Just moments later, the same colleague witnessed Duffy and another host serving the sausage rolls to passengers.
CCTV footage secured during the investigation reportedly shows Duffy retrieving the discarded food, then plating and reheating it before it was served. Following these revelations, both he and his colleague were suspended pending a thorough investigation.
During an investigatory meeting on May 17, 2023, Duffy defended his actions, stating, “I clearly took them out as there were none left for people in first class but they were wrapped in foil.” He emphasized his commitment to customer service, describing himself as someone who “goes over and beyond for the customer.” However, he also revealed his struggles with anxiety and depression, claiming that stress had influenced his judgment.
The tribunal held in August 2025 concluded that LNER acted reasonably in dismissing Duffy for gross misconduct. His claims of unfair dismissal and discrimination were dismissed, with the judge asserting that the actions leading to his dismissal were unrelated to his disability.
This incident highlights the critical importance of food safety standards in the hospitality and travel industry. LNER’s decisive action underscores their commitment to maintaining high hygiene practices to ensure passenger safety.
As this story develops, the implications for staff training and food handling protocols in the transport sector are becoming increasingly significant. Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding situation.
