Update on the clutch situation. I bit the bullet (again!) and had a new 3 piece Luk clutch fitted and "Hey Presto", I have a smooth gearchange and a light clutch pedal again. The pressure plate fingers appeared flattened and uneven, with a visible groove from the bearing. The bearing was dry and had end play too, with "rust dust" all over it. The driven plate wasn't in too bad a condition for a nine year old clutch (48k). I will inform the garage but I don't expect any joy as they had two previous chances to fix it before I bought it and didn't! Life is too short for hassle but I'll give them a chance as I haven't left a review for them yet!!!
Now that it is fixed, I am enjoying the Sportage. It's roomy, comfy and easy to get in and out of. Nothing like the ride of the Rover but hey-ho, needs must! The fuel needle hardly moves at all and it will move if you let it sing to the turbo!
Onward and upwards,
Happy Rovering,
Mike