Royal Mail rant

Have been using royal mail very regularly for a long time without any complaints. Recent events however may make me think about other options;
Sold a lens(£20) on ebay 2 days before going on holiday, buyer paid straightaway and I posted it Signed for second class the day before going on holiday.
Got back 2 weeks later to find a message from buyer saying he had not received item.
Tracking showed Item in his local post office.
Local post office say they hav`nt got it.
Complain to RM customer service. They say basically "tough because I have not included a return address they would not compensate me" #note they could not find the item although it was signed for.

I complain again saying I had included a return address, on the outside of the packet + internal as well.

This morning I got a reply from RM still saying tough they cannot find my item, and will not compensate. An hour later the postman knocked on my door with the un-opened item, "is this yours?" Yes I say and he gives me the packet, did not have to sign for it
RM website still shows it at the local post office to the buyer.

Conclussion; signed for and track and trace are worthless, they offer you no compensation and no comfort that the item will get there.

Davex