I entirely agree with Ian ,having attempted it once to 'save' time I would always have the engine out to replace the block.

Again I am most indebted to all my A7 Friends for all the advise and recommendations.

Just to reiterate, I will be having the engine sorted in the Autunm of this year, therefore should you have the misfortune to get stuck behind me at some point this Summer you will be treated to an James Bond style fog Sorry!

Meanwhile I need to get saving up some cash

Good luck with the rebuild David. It's a very satisfying moment when you swing the handle and your rebuilt engine runs well.
I agree with Ian and the other David re taking the engine out, it is MUCH easier to work on. I once stopped at a small village garage in my box saloon for petrol, the old boy who served me showed me the hideous scars on his fingers which he received as a young apprentice when trying to refit the block of an A7. He had not thought to disconnect the battery and with fingers trying to guide the pistons into the cylinders nudged the starter cable with his left forearm!!

Thanks Lance, yes I will certainly heed the good advise here to remove the engine from the car. Fortunately when I mentioned this to my Bro' he said I have an engine hoist you can use! result. The engine will be coming out in July/ August and then I will have decided if I will have a go or book it in with Andy Shepard.