East Coast, the government run company that operates the east cost mainline, has added a free first class journey to my account morning to my account. I use the line to travel back and forth between London and the North-East each week.

In an email to Escape club members that travelled during the period that saw planes grounded due to the Icelandic ash cloud the train operator explains that it wants to show its appreciation to frequent travellers following the surge in passenger numbers.

“Over this period we carried over 32,000 extra passengers and did everything we could to manage the unexpected level of demand; we provided 27 additional services between London and Edinburgh and 36 extended services between London and Newcastle through to Edinburgh.”

“However, we recognise that this unprecedented level of demand may have had an impact on the comfort of your journey so we would like to show our appreciation for your patience by giving you an extra Travel for One voucher on your escape account.”

It’s an extraordinary move by a company that is clearly keen to delight its customers.