Hi Steve,
thanks for your efforts to clarify this situation, its greatly appreciated.
The flames (not huge but similar to that of the Cosworth BTCC from the late 80s) occur only very briefly during upward gear changes when the exhaust gas temperature is around 800 to 850 degrees C ( this I would call pressing on). This would not happen under normal everyday driving conditions.
Funny you should mention Newton Abbot I understand that there is a big car show there in the summer, It would be great to get a good turnout of nice Cosworths from the South Devon area. Will try and find out more details and post this up.

CheeRS, Mike