@ Mike
I have just spoke to Apple Chat, here is what they said:
You are chatting with Kelly M, an Apple Expert
Hi, my name is Kelly M. Welcome to Apple!
Kelly M: Hello.
Kelly M: How may I assist you today?
You: I have 2 phones on order in Scotland and just received an email saying they will be delivered at a later date
You: I also have 2 phones reserved in an apple store in Aberdeen on the Thursday
You: Now if I buy the reservations can I cancel the pre order?
Kelly M: You're welcome to do so, if you'd like, yes.
You: So if I buy the reservations on Thursday and then call Apple afterwards to cancel this - will this be ok?
You: I don't want to cancel it just now tho
You: I will just wait till the day
Kelly M: Yes, you can do that.
You: and I wont get charged?
You: still for the pre ordered phones
You: ?
Kelly M: That's correct.
You: do you know why Scotand was set as a far distance for the couriers to deliver too?
You: it ins't the highlands
Kelly M: That's not information I have, I'm afraid. I do apologize for the inconvenience.
You: ok thanks Kelly,
Kelly M: You're welcome.