Wanted: good web host, preferably UK based

[Mosaic]

I'm getting a bit fed up with my current web host company which is useless at answering the phone and a 'slow and sniffy' on email techsupport. They have had repeated issues with email failing, and as I am building up commercial activity online I don't feel like risking them any more. Is anyone using a company they would be prepared to recommend? I would be looking for domain hosting and supporting email and forums. Naturally, if you do a gooogle search every company claims to be the last word in excellence - including the one I'm currently with - which is why I would value some word of mouth recommendations as they are more likely to reflect reality.
I am reasonably tecchie but not to server manager standards. I feel a UK-based company will be easier to reach for techsupport than, say, US.

[Buenchico]

Definitely among the best:
http://www.claranetsoho.co.uk/web-hosting

Chris

[Mosaic]

Thanks Chris

[mtalk]

I am hosting with with http://www.webhost.uk.net, UK based hosting. Good in support and customer service. I have used them for a long time after I had same kind of problems with my previous. But this hosting has really given me piece of mind

[MarkRae]

The key phrase here is "building up commercial activity online." So, you're running a web-based business? In that case, I'd strongly advise you to steer well clear of those hosts aimed squarely at the residential market (e.g. 1and1 etc) and go for something designed with SMEs in mind. I've been with HostingUK for years and have never had any major problems with them: http://www.hostinguk.net/

[Mosaic]

Thanks folks - all very helpful.

[squarebear]

I use www.123-reg.co.uk and have NEVER had a problem in over 10 years use from them.