Thank you Keef and FS
The relative performance site was interesting but, unfortunately, the best ones were either cable (don't have it) or not directly available. BT will definitely not feature in my future - phoned them to ask for their contract details (nine days ago) - still nothing received!!!
Time was, that one fell over the constant stream of freebie internet access CDs, BT, Freeserve, AOL et al. Not so now. AOL have a franchise with Dixons and Currys, Orange similarly with Comet and to get a BT CD one has to PAY Jessops £10!!!
It is looking increasingly like Orange, by default - not ideal, but seemingly available. Talk-Talk quoted a MINIMUM of six weeks to provide.
One crumb of comfort ... AOL actually APPEAR to have stopped billing me for their service - wonders will never cease!!