New Caledonian Sleeper carriages for routes from London to Inverness, Aberdeen and Fort William are delayed

THE new £150 million luxury carriages will not now come into service until July 7 – five weeks later than planned.

Scotland's transport secretary Michael Matheson has blamed Spanish manufacturer CAF for being unable to supply enough carriages in time and apologised for having to convey "such negative news".

New carriages had been expected to be launched on the route on June 2, incorporating double beds and en-suite facilities.

Passengers who have booked from that date onwards are having their fares refunded.

In a letter to Holyrood's rural economy and connectivity committee Mr Matheson said: "CAF has not supplied sufficient vehicles in a service-ready state to allow Caledonian Sleeper to start the Highlander service as planned."

He said the delay was "extremely disappointing".

Serco said the decision to delay the introduction of the service was to minimise the risk of teething problems and in recognition of the "complexities" of the Highland route.

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