A station cafe which has served royalty and the stars could be shunted aside for something more modern.

Rail bosses have signalled they want The Runaway at Lewes station to become more like a high street coffee shop.

But supporters of the popular refreshment stop have vowed it will not be the end of the line for owners Vic and Jackie Elsey.

Princess Diana once ordered a bacon sandwich from the cafe which can also count country singer Willie Nelson, actor Michael York and the Duke of Gloucester among its customers.

Train operator Southern confirmed it is talking to the Elseys about the lease on the cafe they have run for 23 years.

The couple say they have been told something more modern is needed for what the company sees as one of its flagship commuter stations.

Now they fear their time at the Runaway will hit the buffers unless they agree to modernise and open on Sundays.

Commuters have launched a campaign to keep the cafe as it is and to prevent it being turned into just another high street-style coffee house.

They include Lewes MP Norman Baker who has demanded a meeting with Southern managing director Chris Burchell.

A Southern spokesman said: "I can confirm that the cafe at Lewes station is approaching the end of its current lease.

"We are in contact with the business and are discussing their proposals with them for the renewal of the lease and the process is at an early stage.

"We are committed to providing our passengers with the best possible service at Lewes station."