I have a Fabia Estate 1.4TDI 80 with 38k on the clock. The car has developed a crunchy gear change going from first to second gear. It only happens after I've driven more than about 20 miles and is fine on the down-shift to second gear. Car will be due for a service at 40k but I'd be interested in your opinions as to the cause before I risk getting fleeced by the dealer!

I'd see about getting the gearbox oil replaced first off...

+1 for oil change as it's the cheapest option. Then cable adjustment check, engine, gearbox mountings, after that it's likely to be 2nd gear syncro hub.

could be a syncro