Thanks for your thoughts folks. My last toaster was the least worst of a whole bunch that I tried in succession - the worst was the most expensive and had an element like the old electric fires with a mirror behind it (Panasonic I think). My best performing toaster is currently in my caravan...
Can anyone recommend a 2-man toaster which toasts rather than bakes bread slices? I guess the elements would be very hot and close to the bread. I like toast which is brown on the outside and soft on the inside. It seems hard to find such a toaster. (i live in the UK)