cheeRS for the input guys. Think i will get someone reputable to do the front valance as close as they can to the colour the car is now and see what it looks like. The side bits that come round to the front off the front arches seem to be the same colour as the rest of the car, it's just the valance. It should'nt cost that much and worth a shot before a full respray. Got a baby on the way in July so my missus won't be too happy about spending loads of dosh at the moment. Like people say, a mint S1 is a mint S1, original paint or not. The panels would still be original even if was resprayed.