What a difference a County makes!
When I ordered a Birth Certificate (my grandfather) from the Conwy County Registration Office, it was a very simple, straightforward and value added experience. I expected a similar experience when I ordered a Birth Certificate from Gwynedd Council for my uncle Richard Davies.
My initial request was made via their website on 10 September. In the absence of a reply, I sent a follow up email on 20 September. It was not until 22 September that I received a reply, requesting information which was sent (using their own form) on 23 September, and received a reply stating that a record was found and I could contact them by phone but would need a "UK Card Only" to facilitate payment.
I asked for clarification on this point on 24 September and drew their attention to my experience with Conwy. Having no reply, I sent a follow up email on 29 September and finally received a response stating that the Council can "only accept credit/debit cards registered in the UK". I responded with my disappointment that I could not deal with a local office, suggested that they explore their current practices (with perhaps a phone call to Conwy Council) to enable a world focus rather than a UK only focus, and stated that I would order the certificate through the GRO (which is cheaper and very straight forward for overseas customers).
I have placed an order with GRO tonight, so hope to hear back soon. Regards to all