Reporter Sonia Elks is on the 18.22 London Liverpool Street to Clacton train - revealed as the fourth most overcrowded service in the country.

18.24 - “London Liverpool Street Station is buzzing with commuters who just want to to get home.

“Already there is is standing space only and passengers are still arriving.

“To make matters worse we are already a few minutes later and counting.”

18.30 - "As we set off, eight minutes late, conditions are alreadly slightly sardine-like.

"I'm one of those unlucky enough to be standing, and there's more than an hour and a half to go until we reach Clacton.

18.56 - "Five people get off at Shenfield but four get on, including a mum with an unfolded pram full of shopping.

"Standing is already uncomfortable.

"One girl, clearly a veteran traveller, has curled up in a corner."

19.00 - The crowds thin a little at Ingatestone as eight people get off. Phew.

19.06 - A rush of commuters pile off at Chelmsford suddenly leaving the carriage quite empty.

Feet aching, I nab a seat at last!

19.35 - The crawl towards Clacton begins as the speed drops and the train calls at village stations.

At least I've got a seat!

20.08 - We pull into Clacton after 1hr 38m - just two minutes later - and the train is almost empty.