Virgin Atlantic has replaced its “highly collectable” salt and pepper sets in its Upper Class cabin. The previous pieces became so sought after they were appearing on eBay for up to £20 each. But the new replacement pots are not to be stolen. To ensure the pots are not pinched, cabin crew will collect the new shakers in after each meal service. The brand new pots, which are sure to be a crowd pleaser, have been inspired by a classic cocktail shaker.Made of chrome and 66mm tall, it snaps apart to become an individual salt and pepper shaker.

Virgin Atlantic spokeswoman Janine Doy comments: “Thousands of the previous coveted condiments were pinched over the past 12 years but we are guarding their replacements closely. “We had no idea how popular our old salt and pepper pots had become - but we hope the new ones will be just as popular”

The new shakers are the result of the company’s policy to use unique, bespoke designs to make everything in a Virgin aircraft look and feel special, compared to mass produced items used by rivals airlines.