Czech mate - didn't know that, but mine is a 2002 so last of the run so presumably shouldn't have fallen into that category?

Would've thought with crank walk the noise should alter with the clutch being pressed? Mine doesn't?!

Warren I've found a puma in Buxton which supposedly has a good engine but the usual rot, no mot and the guy only wants £225 for it so I'm having a mate check it out for me then may just buy the complete car if it's alright. Could always whip mine apart once it's out and check it over. If there's no other issues I could just chuck some new bearings and rings at it and happy days...spare engine