Thanks a lot for the advice. For info as soon as I got the initial responses
last night here (three quick replies - all saying *problem*) I called up
United Utilities who advised that any excessive heat or a burning smell
constituted an emergency and an engineer called (seems a very good
response - around an hour from call to visit on a B Holiday?).

Anyway, the engineer took a look and advised that the unit (I'm assuming the
fuse unit thingy) needed replacing with a new one. In the meantime I was to
keep the loading as minimal as possible (no showers/immersion etc) until it
is sorted. Another hour on and a pair of engineers called and spent a couple
of hours doing some more work. As of about 11pm last night I've got a shiny
new fuse 'thingy' (100A fuse). Looks like they've also moved the meter and
replacd the various tails that feed everything. a few hours from start to
finish and I have to say I've been impressed with the whole thing.

Having spent a few days *not* going with my gut feeling that things were not
right and feeling a bit of a plonker for not making the call sooner I'm
finally glad I asked you guys and got the right advice because something
clearly is/was wrong as you suggested from the off. Thanks a million for the
help and concern, sorry I didnt get back earlier but as guessed the power
was off until late and then family visit type stuff has kept me away since.

Cheers again everyone,

Regards
Ron