The first direct train to the south of France left from Ashford International this morning.

Eurostar officially launched the new service from London and Ashford to Lyon, Avignon and Marseille.

The first train left St Pancras, London at 7:19am and stopped at Ashford at 7.55am.

In just under five hours, more than 500 passengers were transported straight to the centre of Lyon, the French capital of gastronomy.

In just under six hours they would be in the sunny Avignon and in just under seven hours, they could be sipping Pinot noir under the bright lights of Marseille.

Up to five services will run a week to the favourite holiday destination, with tickets starting at £89 return for Lyon and £99 return for Avignon and Marseille.

Travellers on today's inaugural journey were welcomed with activities on board and staff were dressed en français in a striped ‘marinière’ t-shirt and traditional straw hat.