This might be a bit of a lame brain one! But I noticed the other day that the brake lights work even when the ignition is turned off.Is this right?! My Octavia doesn't do it but both my, and my Girlfriends Fabia does! I thought the electrics were playing up but was told it's normal.

Yes it's normal

Same for most VAG's, even my 30 year old Polo does it. I think the logic is if you're sat with the engine off and suddenly need to make yourself seen.

Even Skoda Estelles used to do it.