Sounds like an almighty cock-up but I'd put my money on John Lewis as opposed to Currys every time. In fact I'd wager that if you write to the company setting out the problems you've experienced and inconvenience you've suffered you could well receive some compensation.
Had a minor problem with a TV I bought from Currys a while back. After several attempts I got through to their 'customer services' and explained the problem only to be told I'd be given a reference number and would need to contact another department to arrange service. Tried this number umpteen times over several days but never managed to get through and gave up in the end. They were totally and utterly useless!
http://www.ciao.co.uk/currys_co_uk__5154936
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2003/05..._buy_anything/
http://www.clik2complaints.co.uk/DPs/currys6.html
http://www.kelkoo.co.uk/ctl/do/maxiM...iews~100410713
http://www.consumeractiongroup.co.uk...currys-dixons/