But as we finally trundled into Wuhan, overtaken by yet another sleek-nosed high-speed train, I asked a fellow traveller about China's upcoming leadership changes.

BBC: Changing China seen from the 'hard seats' of a train

Another Birmingham traveller complained of cancellations on one cross city service, only to find an 11-minute delay on the next train.

BBC: London Midland staff shortages cancel trains