Rang the repairers who were more than happy to return the camera to me asap. I'm betting that it turns up pdq because it's 'not their problem' then. Of course it may well go missing but I have the original special delivery slip - so they will pay.
Seems Amazon no longer stock the Powershot A70. Am hoping for a full refund because the Powershot A80 is £10 less and higher spec. If not then should be able to persuade them to send us a Powershot A80 anyway rather than Powershot A75 which is currently about £165 (£55 less) and comparatively not as good a deal.
The theory is that the faulty camera is disposed of and I get a brand spanking new one. Having been without for a month already during a photographically busy time I feel justified in being mercenary. I didn't have the camera for the Heartlad Games,
Am hoping to have a digital for the Tribal Gathering and Mark & Jen's wedding. Even if the return takes a while to process we should be able to sort the refund out asap as long as we have proof of posting. If the camera doesn't make an appearance within 30 days - they simply charge your card with the cost of the replacement.
Here's hoping that there are no further glitches. I should imagine there will be - but I have all the paperwork so hopefully I am win.