by Jo Sword

The number of carriages on peak high speed train services from Ashford to St Pancras is being doubled.

Southeastern says it has taken the decision because the 7.48am service into London and the 5.37pm service back to Ashford have attracted nearly 300 passengers, which has almost led to people having to stand.

'Preview' services were launched last week and Southeastern spokesman Jon Hay-Campbell said they were proving "extremely popular".

Each six-car train can hold around 300 seated passengers and those two peak services will increase to 12 cars.

Audio: Southeastern's Jon Hay-Campbell talks to kmfm about extending the number of carriages.

Despite the early success the company is staying cautious for the time being.

Vince Lucas, commercial director, said: "We are not going to be complacent and recognise that this is early days, so we will be working as hard as possible to ensure the continued smooth running of the service."