wahooooooo

The problem has gone away!
After a bit of careful thinking, and discussions with the current owner, we are now in a position where they can let me take the boat away on Friday, providing I furnish them with a letter confirming that the finance isn't going to be cancelled, and a copy of my insurance certificate..... I'll get a copy of the Bill of Sale, and be provided with the original when the funds all move around on Tuesday/Wed
So, the crew can be stood back on, ready for action.....
And, I don't have to put an excessively large sum on my credit card!