when my car has been stood still for 2 or more days and i first start it up it is difficult to put into first gear and then when i start to drive the brakes feel as though they've seized. is this unusual because it has me worried i could be causing damage.

If it's quite high mileage then the gearbox oil could be past its best and a bit sludgy until it gets warm. The rear brakes on mine often seem to bind a bit first thing in the morning but stop after a couple of jabs of the pedal - if it goes on any longer than that, have a good look at them because it's not worth taking the chance.

cheers mate it has done 70000 so when i get it next serviced i'll get the gearbox oil changed. it's called haldex isn't it.

Haldex is the name of the 4WD system fitted to some Octys - it's a part time system, where the power goes to the front wheels for most of the time but can be partially shoved through the back wheels as well when needed. It works through a hydraulic clutch which needs its oil changing regularly to stay happy, but that's separate from the gearbox.

It might be worth asking one of the mechanics here if there are any other issues that might cause your symptoms before having the gearbox oil changes, as I've only experienced the situation you describe on cars other than my Octy and can't say if the effects would feel the same.

I can't think of anything other than a slightly sticky clutch. The gearbox oil change won't do any harm anyway though.

As for the sticky clutch, declutch before starting up from cold, and it should clear itself if that is the problem.