The mileage is now 44557. And the car is still holding out. After having to wait for between 8 and 10 days for parts we decided to botch it. We are now near the LT border and although Poland is a cool place we will be glad to see the back of it. Well it was never going to be easy in an 18 year old Panda. We also got a good mention on Talk Radio last night after we sent them a SMS.
I am sure the car didn't actually need fixing anyway... good luck and keep going little car... keep going...