On 24/04/2014 12:57, Bill Wright wrote:
Sometimes (about every third time) there is considerable resistance on
the gear lever when I try to engage first. If I cautiously let the
clutch out there is eventually the sound of clashing gear wheels, then
the lever moves into gear easily. Does anyone know what the trouble is?

Bill

Age of car? If it's old, it's because it is old. With the clutch down,
try going into second then back into first.