I need to replace the gear gaitor/surround, etc.

I know how to remove the gear knob from the metal geat stick.

I've removed and replaced the whole thing before, it was easy but this time I can't remember how to get it off., the gear surround that it, help.

many thanks in advance

You have to prise the surround up from the centre console, just under the decorative trim (black plastic, aluminium or chrome depending on model and year). This was fairly easy on my 2008 Fabia but it is much tighter on my 2011 model. I bought a set of plastic trim removal tools. Found they do the job nicely. You need to be careful though and work your way around the gaiter bottom slowly and evenly. Good luck.

Thanks for the tips. I tried to lift the gaitor off the centre console but can onl manage to lift the circular decorative trim off, the plastic ring that fits into the centre console is proving very difficult to get off, it's extremely tight. I don't want to break it. Is there a techique or specific points where you should insert a removal tool. I've tried using an eating knife, only got the trim off.

Gently pry it using a plastic lever

This pic might help you to find a specific point

Thanks for the picture. It looks like there are 4 points that clip onto the centre console, I'll give it another go.

Notice that there is a "cut" on the lip facing the handbrake. If you insert a pry tool there you can slowly lift up the gear stick cover.

Thanks I've not notice that cut, I'll try inserting a tool there.