Hi all
Latest news (I've been with no i'web access since my last post but now back in filthy sunny London) –
I got a mate to win it succesfully for just under £500 (bit annoyed that anyone else was bidding on it as it was blatantly stolen)
After lots of phone calls to mate & the local burgularly team, we're still in the process of getting the bike.
The seller is being v v slow responding to emails but we're now on mobiles & hoping to meet up with him tomorow/tuesday.
Full details as to what/where/when/how when I've actually got it back in my hands…….
In the meantime, many many thanks for all the support, advice & offers of muscle. All v much appreciated. If I'd been at home I'd have definitely taken you up on the offer of a 'collection party' but being away has just added to the frustration of it all.