janmobile, welcome to FT.

I assume you've seen BA's recent announcement that free seat selection for Bronze, Silver and Gold members of their frequent flying programme has been re-introduced on Basic (Hand Baggage Only) fares. This applies from mid-June.

If you have not booked one of those fares - and it sounds like you picked the option above with included checked baggage - or if you don't have BA status, then I'm afraid as others have said you won't be entitled to a refund.

However, stick around FT, have a look around the BA board, and I'm pretty sure we'll soon have you up to a status level where you will qualify for free seating in the future!