must admit that's looking like the way forward. not touching it tonight and there will be no running water in the bathroom until this is sorted.

gonna relax with a beer tonight, then flick the big red switch to the off position in the morning and give it a beating if that's what it takes. as long as i can sort it by monday night then it's all good.

on a slightly smug note, this bodge job really is a serious problem if the replies are anything to go by!

thanks for all the advice folks. hopefully when i do get the face plate off the wiring won't look like the disaster i found in the dining room light!
wish i could find the person or people that did this!