whoever planned, authorised and ordered such short sets for these very long distance services should have been sacked, and the whole XC plan re-written..... Totally unacceptable stock for such a long service, added to the fact that they are smelly and noisy ( like me ? ).
Glad I have only had the misfortune to board one in the last ten years, from Leeds to Newcastle, and that was in first. Hats off to the staff who work these services, I imagine there are not too many easy shifts !
I habitually avoid any XC services when planning my rail travel, even if it costs me a bit more time and dosh.