Any way to get a refund from HMRC for customs duty?

My dad sent me a package last week.  It's the first time he's done this, so he didn't know anything about filling out the customs declaration.

It's not much, just a couple of promo hats and can-cozees from his company, and a card & check for $100.

So, when he filled out the declaration, he declared $110 worth of goods.  Because of the $100 check. 

That's not right, is it?  There shouldn't be duty on a check, if it's a gift?

I'm out the 8 quid 'handling fee' from Parcel Force anyway, but is there any reasonable way to recover the actual duty fee from HMRC? 

I was once successful in obtaining a refund for over £100 I paid in customs duty and import VAT, so it is certainly possible. You need to write a letter to:

UK Border Agency
Coventry International Hub
Siskin Parkway West
Coventry
CV3 4HX

Include your parcel's UPI number which you can find on the letter from Parcelforce, and request that the customs duty (and VAT if applicable) be re-assessed.

With your letter you should include as many of the following as possible:

• the charge label from the package
• a copy of the Parcelforce charge notice you may have received by post
• a copy of the customs declaration
• an email from the sender confirming the actual package contents and values of all items

Also, needless to say it is always worth using Recorded Delivery for letters of this nature.