Thanks Dan.
I have now discovered how to remove the control panel fascia which then gives access to the front panel retaining screws. However, I then need to remove the door seal in order to take this panel off (haven't tried this yet). It is not clear whether this will give access to the heater element but there is certainly something hidden behind there.
If the element is at the rear base of the drum then it sounds like I need to unbolt the concrete block weight. Is this normal?
Ian Pedder, February 2008