It's nearly certain this is already sorted! Got a call this evening from the sales guy to tell me they have secured my preferred car from the MINI dealer - it has disappeared from Cherished so I just need to confirm a few final details face to face tomorrow and I should have a very quick resolution to this whole mess.
Not counting chickens yet though! If it comes off the car is a much better specced Clubby the same age and mileage as the one I wanted originally.
I'll keep you updated! ol: