A FIRM of wine merchants from the region has secured a contract worth more than £500,000.

Playford Ros, of Thirsk, North Yorkshire, has won the contract to supply train company GNER with wine until 2005.

Managing director Andrew Firth said: "We have been supplying GNER with wine since November 1999 and have enjoyed our association with one of the most popular and successful of Britain's train operation companies.

"The perception and reality of railway catering has changed radically since the dark days of the infamous British Rail sandwich.

"GNER travellers now expect to eat and drink well and to enjoy their journey in comfort and style. We are very happy to fulfil these expectations."

GNER's catering development manager, Nick Spencer, said: "We are extremely pleased that Playford Ros has won this contract.

"We have had a gentlemen's agreement with them over the past couple of years and we have had a great relationship during that time. Now, it is official and we could not be happier."

The contact to supply GNER with wine runs out in April, 2005, when GNER's franchise is up for renewal.

Playford Ros's wine will be available in quarter, half and full bottles and has been blended and bottled for GNER.

The white wines are from Chile, Australia and France, while the reds come from Chile, Australia and Spain. The company is also supplying port.

More than 200,000 bottles a year will be bought by GNER.