Multiple times. They can’t change the destination as per my ticket. The Newcastle based agent cottoned on with what I actually wanted (dropping the last leg) and hinted at course of action - but - they couldn’t override their ticketing policy. Nor would I want to put a BA employee in an awkward position either as well.

I do want to do this - and BA can force open commercial availability on the GIG-LHR leg to “get me” to Madrid, obviously, I just want to get back to London.

Needless to say, I booked ex-MAD due to avios (un)availability in the first place and to save £££ by flying ex-MAD in the first place (easily over £400 at least on APD savings alone!)

I’m not opposed flying via Madrid (why I did it in the first place) - just - if the opportunity to fly direct back to the UK has presented itself, I want to take it… for the environmental benefits of course