All fixed today. Bill of £240. While they were replacing the pump they also noticed that 2 bolts were missing on the inlet manifold which puts suspicion on the quality of work of the previous garage. Only grump I have is that they once again overfilled the expansion tank to within half inch of the top. I will syphon some off tomorrow.
Thanks for the advice re Russell. I'll bear him in mind if ever the HG does go, but being a few hundred miles from him I suspect it would work out expensive. I've also since been given the name of a mechanic (with excellent references) nearby who works on his own and for only £20 an hour :cheer: The next job, when it arises, will go to him and if he proves to be good then Ill post up references for anyone in this area who might need a mechanic.
Next job .... more leaks .... windows!! Have just been reading cjj's How to's and as soon as we get a dry weekend will be attempting to adjust windows to get a better seal.
Thanks all
r