Departures: B & Bs get better

STANDARDS of British bed- and-breakfast places are improving and prices are being held down by 'cut-throat' competition, says the new edition of The Good Bed and Breakfast Guide (Consumers' Association, pounds 13.99). 'B & B owners aren't keeping prices low by serving one bacon rasher instead of two, or turning down the bedroom thermostats, but by watching their competitors,' it says.