This whining just started in mid-journey yesterday. The volume of the whine varies but it's noisier when accelerating up hills or when travelling at speed and lifting one's foot off. However, it can also easily be heard when stationary and in neutral, when a quick press on the accelerator - say up to 3000 revs - and then foot off, produces a clearly diminishing whine. In days gone by, I recollect failing clutches used to whine but this one performs when vehicle is not in gear & not moving!

Any thoughts would be much appreciated.

Your enquiry would be best posted here

https://www.briskoda.net/forums/forum/28-skoda-octavia-mk2-2004-2013/