Wow thanks guys for all your replies, It was good for me to read them and your views.
I will have a look around at the accounts mentioned and see what they are offering. My uncle is self employed and paid his business cheques etc into a different current account.One day he went in to bank and they asked him to convert to business banking, he obviously refused (he has been paying in for over 20 years), I dont think they can force you?
HSBC and First Direct look pretty good, do you know if they would charge then for paying cheques into the bank? as if its internet based it would be difficult to do.
I am going to ask about the card payment scheme Theresa as I do think there are gains to be had, however does the 2% seem quite steep to you?
regards to all
Teresa