And a warm welcome from me too
TDAIR.
We have a thread specifically related to this issue:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/briti...61-2004-a.html. The first few posts are particularly informative. There is also an archive of last year's discussions which you will find useful too:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/briti...3-archive.html
Your experience seems in line with BA's current attitude. Read previous threads for others' experiences and advice.
hth