Well here we have it - another enquiry to MyPoints tells me to wait 4-6 weeks AGAIN.

We're now into my fourth month trying to redeem these points. I wish I had done them 1,000 at a time rather than trying to get a big award.

The cynic in me says that this level of service is the result of wanting something for nothing. I've just registered www.ihatemypoints.com and would welcom any stories about other peoples redemption experiences to add. Please just email me.

I'm now trying to find out if any kind of illegal activity has occurred - wire or mail fraud - as my next step.