Thanks so much guys...
Colin thanks - that does indeed look very much the part.
I'll get to it tommorrow and check for any damage caused by its absense.
Dean I'm sorry you've had similar bad experiences. After the timing belt fiasco I decided to redo the whole job myself as I'm reasonably competent - but just needed the extra confidence and support from you guys
I am much happier knowing I have done a way better job than these cowboys had - and I replaced the pump at the same time which made it more justified.
Problem is these guys are (were for me) friends of the family and service two other cars in our fold.
I just can't ever see me trusting another garage again. I paid over 300 quid to have the job done by guys I've known for over 20 years - badly.