A CHAMPAGNE trip from Warrington aboard Britain’s most luxurious train has been cancelled because of the coronavirus.

The Northern Belle should have taken 300 passengers for a slap-up day out to Cardiff and Hereford on Saturday, April 18.

But bosses have decided to shunt the train, once part of the iconic Orient Express group, into a siding until May.

A spokesman for the Cheshire-based company said: “We made the decision with great regret and we know many people will be disappointed.

“But the welfare of passengers and staff must come first.

“The effect of this devastating virus changes day by day so we will monitor the situation and make another statement on April 17 about services during May and the rest of the summer.”

Passengers booked on the train during April will be offered a full refund, or they can choose a gift card redeemable against any other Northern Belle train during the next 12 months.

The train will return to Warrington Bank Quay several times during the summer, including trips to Bath and Scarborough in May.