Why was Peter Duffy sacked by LNER?

Peter Duffy was sacked for gross misconduct after serving passengers sausage rolls that had been retrieved from a bin.

Did the tribunal rule in favor of the train worker?

No, the tribunal dismissed Peter Duffy's claims of unfair dismissal and discrimination against LNER.

What defense did Peter Duffy offer for his actions?

Mr. Duffy claimed he was trying to go 'over and beyond' for customers and cited personal health issues.

Home / Crime and Justice / Train Worker Sacked Over Bin Food Scandal

Train Worker Sacked Over Bin Food Scandal

4 Jan

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Summary

Sausage rolls retrieved from bin served to first-class passengers.
Employee claimed he went 'over and beyond' for customer satisfaction.
Tribunal dismissed unfair dismissal and discrimination claims.

Train Worker Sacked Over Bin Food Scandal

A former London North Eastern Railway (LNER) employee, Peter Duffy, was dismissed in July 2023 following an incident where first-class passengers were served sausage rolls taken from a bin. The situation unfolded on May 7, 2023, when Mr. Duffy retrieved the food, which had been discarded due to being unavailable, and his colleague served it.

Mr. Duffy claimed his actions stemmed from a desire to provide exceptional customer service, stating he had "gone too far for the customer." He also cited personal struggles with anxiety and depression, and a potential episode of transient global amnesia. However, CCTV footage appeared to confirm the retrieval and serving of the bin-sourced food.

An investigation led to Mr. Duffy's dismissal for gross misconduct. He subsequently filed claims for unfair dismissal and discrimination at a tribunal in Newcastle in August 2025. The tribunal, in its judgment published on Wednesday, ruled that LNER acted reasonably and that the dismissal was not a consequence of any disability.

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