Thanks again everyone. It's all good stuff.
It's great to have this lifeline because I am completely clueless...that's what I've learnt so far!
I got a new battery and she's starting 2nd time now...seems to be the way she rolls. So far so good.
Trouble is I need a belt and filters. The belt's about to go so can't drive out anywhere in case it pings on the road and I'll get stuck!!
The problem I'm having is finding parts at a reasonable cost and also what do other people do about chassis/VIN number in relation to parts buying? or what model do you look for because M1008 rarely is on any parts websites but ok on ebay, just not a huge choice.
It's been a full time job just finding stuff...at one point I had 2 laptops on the go, my iphone and pad and pen. Had to stop for a tea break! Was at it for hours!
I'm grateful for all your replies and advice.
Cheers!