the gear change does work but only after getting the shifter back to where it should sit after changing up or down. cannot see a spring along the linkage - before i get the tools out can anybody advise whether there is a spring (somewhere ?) .  the trusty can of wd40 didn't work - which means there is definitely a problem!   ........ and just before the long weekend !!!!  tia 

thanks wayne- about to start the job now . let you know the result.

Wayne , you are on the money. my weekend just brightened up . cheers

job done - thanks Wayne