Can I ask what oil you ended up using? Are you changing it to fixed servicing?

I got some Carlube 5w30 stuff from a local motor factor. Yes i have changed to fixed servicing.

The stuff that came out had been in for around 15k on the variable servicing and the service light had still not come on:eek: . I have to say the car seems to be smoother and quieter after doing the service but i guess this could be in my head maybe? not sure if anyone else has noticed this type of thing.

Its probably not your imagination. Valve timing is dependant on oil pressure so if the oil is old and of poor quality it could effect it in some small way.