If you've cancelled your contract before the date it was due to end, the maximum they can charge to bouy out the remainder of the contract is £180. Plus any outstanding normal bill, iff any. My parents did that recently, as they were sick of their broadband and TV being down more often than it was up. Have to admit, they had similar problems - different bills, difficulty understanding the call centre people. So i emailed their CEO, and it was sorted out in a few days. He's tom.mockridge @virginmedia.co.uk

Do you mean they're offering to tape your medical on an old-style cassette recorder? I personally would be OK with that. If you're not, then say no.

I just got mine, and so far have done a shoulder of lamb, and pizza - thanks for all the hints in here, they are incredibly useful!

I noticed an Extra Care Advantage charge on my statement over a year ago, and have been trying to get a copy of the application form I assume I filled in for this insurance - and no luck so far. I filled in their PPI complaints form, and have exchanged a couple of emails with Simon Westhead from Customer Excellence, Shop Direct Group. He has asked to discuss the matter on the phone, but I have declined, as I want everything he says in writing. I have told him I want the full amount (almost 2 grand now, I reckon!) reimbursed. Is it worth my doing an SAR in the meantime?

Wrong place!