Hi FliedUk,

Contraband was perhaps hyperbole on my part, in fact Dad tells me the customer service was perfectly polite, albeit unequivocal and stern. The operatives didn't identify themselves as part of BA but were wearing high vis jackets so I assume they were the airport authority.

The breaking of the bag unfortunately has no clear evidence and it could be pure coincidence, but the bag went in with an effective retractable handle and didn't come out the same.

I assume a typo on your part - I am delighted so say my Dads back was not broken open!

Thanks all,

TD