I started using the Guildford Borough Council MOT test place (they also do the Taxi testing) a number of years ago after having repeated failures (front suspension bushes twice in 3 MOTs) at a different garage on Slyfield estate. I haven't had a single failure since. Had advisory on front brake hoses worn/cracking and replaced before next MOT. Friendly chaps, and absolutely no motivation to fail unnecessarily. They don't discount the standard MOT charge, but I've probably saved hundreds through not having any failures (questionable or otherwise!). Highly recommended.
D