I just phoned the t.o. They said they are speaking with Royal Mail. Mine were supposed to go out on Saturday, but there has been some problem. Royal Mail say they take up to 48 hours to go out.
So i am really not sure what will happen. I am lucky, i am not leaving until early on Thursday, so i still have another day. I will ask Royal Mail for my £6 back. Special delivery, seems to mean special in the sense that you are special if you get them on time.