OK, so if I understand the system correctly:
1. Look at
http://status-cable.virginmedia.com/vmstatus/summary.do
2. Expect to see it is RED - as its always red "... it doesn't really mean anything for Cable customers generally." (that's helpful for a status page)
3. Go to the link for "Daily update"
4. Review all tickets to see whether my post-code is included
5. If nothing, then report a fault to 151
Is this correct? And BTW, I'm not trying to be awkward, I started this off because I DIDN'T want to add to the inbound pressure for the call centre. Its just not a very helpful set of screens, especially when you are in no mood to p*ss around as your internet is down.
ps its back up again now, so I'm not going to report it !!