Hi Caddyshack and thanks, I live near Staines so not too far, would be good to meet sometime and see your car. Yes the engine goes in from the top and is basically shoehorned into place, so I would like to avoid that if possible, but I'll do it if I have to of course.

Costina thanks for the reply, I hope this is the case and not the rear seal, I guess it's worth doing the sump first and hoping it stops, I can't stand having oil leaks!!