Tried to book the De Vere via the Laterooms link today. The booking page said that the room was not available to book online and please ring the 0844 number which I did.
First couple of times it rang for 5 minutes then they cut me off. Third time I got through, went through all the lengthy rigmarole of giving details and then operator said, "I"ve just got to check with the hotel for availability first, I"ll ring you back." That was over an hour ago.
Finally four 0844 phone calls later I"m in ! It really shouldn"t be this difficult
I"m sure APAT appreciate you trying.
That said, the price was the same direct with the hotel. For obvious reasons, APAT would prefer you to use the link but not at the expense of that much hassle.
As far as i can tell, all of the £40 rooms have gone and the "Club" rooms (and up) are the only ones left.
The HI M6 Jct 2 still has rooms at £38 pn if anyone is interested.