When they put 4 and 5 coach trains (sometimes even less!) on what should be Intercity routes through our 2nd biggest city + a number of our other big city regions, are we really surprised? Crosscountry are the only operator I've used where even 1st class was packed, full and standing! Short trains, unsuitable rolling stock for long distance journeys, it's a sad site. I'm really hoping when all TOCs are finally nationalised, all the Intercity operators are merged and a set standard is enforced like was the case under British Rail. When Crosscountry turns up with an 8 or 9 coach service, they are more than adequate but far too often this doesn't happen unfortunately.
The overcrowding has been a consistent problem for many years now that if it isn't fixed by GBR, then god help us. I really think if Crosscountry was sorted out, then pressure would be relieved a fair bit on London's terminals. But electrification of the main routes needs to happen too. If DFT/ government is serious about trains, Crosscountry should be top priority for any improvements.
