Replaced a Peerless MMW60 Honeywell gas control valve which ran for 23 years OK but diagnosed with an external leak by gas company so I replaced with a Honeywell VR8345M4302 universal 3 years ago. Now I smell gas around the valve only when burners are lit, but bubble testing shows no leaks in or out on gas connections. Is it possible that I have valve leaks after 3 years?

ea george, December 2010

Unless your boiler and other gas appliance have been checked with a manometer or other gas safety checking device you are unlikely to have any reassurance as to the soundness of your system.
It is also illegal (and a very serious offence) for an unregistered plumber/gas engineer (home owner or otherwise) to tamper with gas fittings. For yours and your neighbours sake I would recommend you call a registered gas engineer to check your appliance as soon as possible.

Red hot, December 2010