MN1 application delay

[adaka]

Hi everyone, i hope someone can help me. i applied for registration ( MN1 for my 2 kids) via manchester ncs on 23/08/12. the money was debited on 28/08/12 and acknowledgement letter arrived on the 29th. Since then i have hear absolutely nothing. Ideally we would like to travel over the Christmas break the kids cannot travel until they get their new passports.
My questions are:
1) is everyone experiencing a similar delay.
2) is there a number for contacting ukba an or is my waiting time longer than usual?
3) is there a way of speeding this process up a bit?
Any input will be greatly appreciated.

[AntCoe]

the average waiting time is 3 months, so you should get an answer from them by the end of the month.