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Thanks mazie & spath - looks like the NW card is one to save for easy to track purchases with reputable vendors - fortunately I've got another couple of cards I can use for 'out and about' shopping as they update instantly.
Yes, jackdaw, I have similar info from First Direct - useful but not a deal breaker if I don't get it from NatWest.
I'm quite cross with FD - who are an excellent bank with A1 customer service - I've been with them since they started well over 25 years ago now, yet (when I phoned to see if they would make any effort to stop me defecting to NatWest) they offered absolutely zilch incentive to stay. But will give rate tarts and serial account hoppers £100 to join.
Once again loyalty is worth less than nothing in the financial services sector.