service all done. The car is running much smoother and is much more responsive - back to the drive quality I remember!
Now, the battery warning light....
A quick look at the wiring to the alternator - noticed a wire wasn't connected! No idea how I hadn't noticed this before (I'm guessing its just been working its way loose over the last few month which would also explain why the battery light was flickering to start with before coming on permanently). Anyway, reconnected the wire and hooked the battery back up - hallelujah! No battery warning light!
I'll keep an eye on it and come back for further advice if anything else happens, thanks for your advice everyone!
