AA run around, what has happened to service from established companies!

<p>Having been a member of the Automobile Association for over 20 years i thought logging a call for assistance with my wifes car that wouldnt start would be dealt with swiftly and with minimum hassle!</p> <p>Not to be! On the two occassions i phoned their operators just after 7am, i was told that my account had not been paid and that i needed to provide proof of payment. I appealed to the operator to check my account on their system because i was certain it was paid, only to be told that they cannot check accounts until 8am when that department opens! I gave the operator my number and asked her to tell the accounts department to phone me as soon as they open, that was at 07h29! I then contacted my wife at work and she assured me that the account was paid up last December and she sent me the POP. At 09h23 still no call from the AA, I sat on the phone for 4 minutes without talking to a human being, I hung up, i had work to do! Phoned again, another 5 minute before i was able to speak to the supervisor who immediatly confirmed that my account was paid up and that i should not have been asked to provide POP before receiving motor vehicle assistance! I had an important meeting at 10h00 , had to miss it, still no assistance! I received a phone call from the supervisor of the call centre just after 10h00 apologising for their shoddy service, too late, damage was done! Eventually a mechanic arrived at 10h40! Not what i expect from a long established company who we have loyally supported for over 20 years!!</p>