No worries Whitneyd, of course you were only being helpful
As per Doug, my previous EsCos was wire ringed (properly) and proved very reliable for me.
been browsing for blocks just now LOL wondering if Id be better buying a block hell it will not cost much more than the bloody coopers gasket ahaha
You know, I nearly posted that it may just work out cheaper in the long run to get a new block (circa £600) and go MLS gasket route, but then you may need new pistons etc depending on condition of yours etc... to get the best from the package. Obviously you just want your motor back on the road a.s.a.p. at the moment.
It *may* also be possible to have the Coopers channels 'removed' from the block (it's been mentioned on here before), but I don't know what other issues this may cause as regards compression ratio etc., and it would be an engine out job, but you get to keep your low milage engine intact, and then be able to use a more reliable gasket.
May be worth contacting a tuner direct for your options.