National Express losing noisy crockery

LONDON, Oct. 18 (UPI) -- Britain's National Express railway line says it will no longer offer its traditional crockery to passengers because of complaints it's too noisy.

While crockery has been a cultural mainstay on British trains for 129 years, National Express has sold its traditional cups and saucers to a catering company to avoid disturbing railway customers, The Daily Telegraph reported Friday.

First-class dining car customers have been complaining about the loud noise created by the traditional beverage holders when spoons rattle against their fragile frames.

National Express trains will now only carry specialized china mugs that have been tested to ensure they remain silent and sturdy during railway travel.

Anthony Smith of the watchdog group Passenger Focus told the Telegraph the crockery change will be "interesting" to observe.

"It seems extraordinary that the quality of the train and the track is such that it's causing an irritating level of vibration and it will be interesting to see how National Express customers react to this change," the chief executive of the group said.