Thank goodness Kirsty Wark was sharing her snacks

The sheets were clean and the towels fresh, but lots of imperfections and a lack of attention to detail created a feeling of carelessness.

Nonetheless, I gave my breakfast order (a blueberry smoothie bowl with chia seeds, flaxseeds and crushed, dried banana) and settled in for the night.

We left on time and, tucked up under my cosy duvet, I was ready to be gently rocked to sleep.

I managed to drift off, despite the continuous rattling of the bathroom door handle, but I woke up on the hour, every hour, and the limited space made it hard to find a comfy position.

I’m only 5ft 5in, so I have no idea how someone of 6ft or taller would handle eight hours in a box, or showering while squatting at the side of the toilet.

My breakfast was also a little underwhelming. The purple mess looked like baby sick and didn’t taste much better.

But we actually arrived in Euston station around 40 minutes ahead of schedule, so I felt a bit more optimistic for my return later that day.

Heading back to Glasgow, at 11.50pm, I was booked into a Fixed Classic Solo Room – similar to the Club room I had arrived in but no en suite. But my optimism didn’t last long, as I was informed there would be a limited lounge car service due to staff levels, and it was advisable to eat and drink prior to my journey. I started to sense a pattern.

Despite the warning, I headed to the bar for a snooze-inducing G&T (£7.10!) and was saved a hunger strike by none other than Newsnight anchor, Kirsty Wark, who was kindly sharing her own, pre-bought nibbles.

Ready for bed, I popped back to my room for a cleanliness inspection, and was pleased to find a much higher standard. I had a far more enjoyable night’s sleep – although I heard every single word of my neighbour’s conversation through the interconnecting door – and I didn’t mind too much when we arrived into Glasgow 12 minutes late.

Would I use the sleeper again? Probably not. The lack of staff contributed to the cleanliness and when you’re paying an arm and a leg, you expect a level of service which wasn’t met.

I feel sorry for the lovely staff who are having to pick up the slack.

Serco bosses should go back to basics and stop promising A-list luxury.

Being on time, clean and fully-staffed means so much more.