I had reason to contact customer services of Lloyds TSB Credit Card Services on 08700106622.

After the usual press 1, 2, 3 etc - all our operators are busy- listening to music?? I was connected to an operator who put me on hold 3 times as she attempted to solve the problem.

On her 4th attempt to put me on hold I complained rather strongly about the length of time it was taking and the fact I was on an 0870 number and demanded to talk to a supervisor. Imagine my surprise when she informed me that £10 would be credited to my account to cover the cost of the phone call.

When I spoke to the supervisor she confirmed that £10 would be credited to my account.

12 days later I had to ring my local bank (in connection with the same problem) through an 0845 number and remembering my previous experience I complained about ringing an 0845 number this time I was informed that £5 would be credited to my account.

I delayed posting this until I received my statement to confirm that both amounts had indeed been credited to my account.

I have since contacted my local bank through the same 0845 number but this time after complaining was told to visit my bank who would contact the 08700106622 on my behalf free of charge.

I thing my experience proves it pays to complain.

BG