Volunteers who run East Sussex's meals on wheels service have been ousted and replaced with a German company.

The army of mostly elderly volunteers who have run the service for more than 60 years were given the boot by East Sussex County Council.

German-based company Apetito today took over the contract in a £1.4 million deal.

From tomorrow, pensioners receiving meals will be met by new faces.

Apetito has no plans to retain the mainly retired Women's Royal Voluntary Service stalwarts.

Tory county councillor Keith Glazier, who is in charge of social services, said the decision was not a cost-cutting move.

He said: "It was decided that the contract put forward by Apetito was more sustainable in the long run than that by the WRVS.

"We are immensely grateful for the work done by the WRVS and hope to work with them closely in other areas in the future."

Retired Frank Malone, 66, said: "It is sad but all things change I suppose. It has been immensely enjoyable for me.

"Delivering meals has not only kept me active but also given me a better social life, and now I know so many more people."

Penny O'Brien, of the WRVS, said: "There has been disappointment but they are a very strong bunch of people at the WRVS.

"However, although the meals on wheels service may have gone, they still have an active part to play in other areas so they won't be left in the lurch."