Have to say I tried Merrifields a couple of times and copped a load of attitude so haven't been back, but maybe, as you say, I caught whoever it was on bad days. Love Timpson's, though. Not only is the customer service usually excellent, they employ ex-convicts to help them get back into normal society, which adds a pleasant frisson while I wait. http://www.timpson.co.uk/blog/article/79/john-timpson-we-are-making-a-difference-to-the-lives-of-ex-offenders-