How did the distinction between the 'English' and 'Continental' breakfasts come about?

An English breakfast is generally held to include things like eggs, sauseges, and bacon, whereas a Continenal breakfast is lighter, consisting mostly of breads or pastries with cheese or sliced meats.

When was a difference between the eating habits of England and the rest of Western Europe first documented? Was there a historical or cultural reason for continental Europeans to prefer a lighter morning meal?