I would like to refer to Charlie:(posted 8522 days ago)1) I heard Jessops 400 is Agfa 400, which is grainy by itself. But at GBP 2 I think it is the best value for money, Ilford is GBP 3 up. Paterson 400 seems to be Fomapan, so better stick with the Agfa.
2) I have used split D-76 with HP5+ and sharpness and grain were really improved, it should work with Agfa 400 as well. Contrast was rather low, like two grade harder paper than usually. Not recommended for foggy low contrast scenes!
How to prepare Split (two bath)D-76 in UK?
I would use Ilford ID-11 powder (actually I mixed mine from ID-11)for 1 litre plus 50 g Na2SO3 plus 100 g Borax (ask at the pharmacy ) plus 2 one litre brown glass bottles, called A and B. Ready?
Mix the small bag in the ID-11 package in bottle A at 40°C, after completely (!) dissolved add 50g Na2SO3. Finished!
Mix half the big bag in bottle B and add 50 g borax. Finished!
In Bath A (straight bottle A)the film will absorb the developing agents only, the Na2SO3 is added for swelling and preventing oxidation. Bottle A can be reused until almost empty, as no byproducts are produced. Start with 4 minutes return to bottle.
In Bath B (straight bottle B) the development takes place. Time also about 4 min return to bottle after use. Replace bottle after about 12 films, remember you still have half of the ID-11 bag plus 50 g Borax left over.
Regards,
Wolfram