More good work done today... It is with deep joy I discover that there is no need to remove the OS driveshaft

After disconnecting the track rod end the hub will pull sufficiently clear to release the driveshaft from the gearbox.
So basically, the hydraulic hub puller that I still haven't received is no longer an essential requirement to get the job done.
I also got the gearbox mount loosened ready to be removed and loosened the one very awkward bellhousuing bolt.. That's all the prep. work done now before the gearbox spilt and clutch replacement proper... Before I do that I'll pop the new handbrake cables on whilst access is so good...
I made a small modification to the gearbox mount to make the rebuild easier. One of the bolts that fix the mount casting tot he gearbox proper is obscured by a big washer on the base of the rubber mount shaft. It's hard to get a decent purchase on this bolt as a result but after loosening it and then removing the casting I ground a small cutout into the washer to enable a socket to just clear it.
I also determined, by the intact blue paint on the mounts, that this is the first time this job has been done..