VMobile Simply 8p switch

[Aragorn]

Just had a silly conversation with Virgin Mobile about SIM cards.
I decided I need a cheap VM Simply 8p PAYG phone and opted for the Samsung C3630. Bought in Tesco at same price as VM website - £19.97 incl £10 airtime.
Now the fun - I figured VM would 'simply' be able to switch the unused SIM from the standard rate to Simply 8p rate - sound reasonable? Oh no, can't do that - you need a new SIM / Phone no!
"OK, send me a new free SIM."
"Ah, that will be £5 for your free SIM."
"Eh? It's free! I don't want and extra £5 airtime, I have £10 sitting on my desk!!"
At that point I said forget it and ordered a new FREE SIM from the VM website!
BTW, If anyone knows how the existing SIM can be switched, please let me know as I do need a second one for the wife.

[carlwaring]

I suppose it does seem a little odd that they can't just transfer you onto this other Tariff but there has to be a reason for it. For example, I know it's only for existing VM customers who take other services. Maybe it's a separate system or something.

Anyway, I just got a free one off the website and had my existing number transferred.