Just had exactly the same thing happen to me. Timer continually flashing and showing auto. Unable to set to manual. The instructions posted below really do work. Who cares about the clock....my oven works!!! Takes about 20 mins. Take your time and just be careful when you slide the right hand cover to the right after removing the screws. You don't have to treat it like cotton wool but jst be careful not to yank it too far up when you lift it to get at the blue wires. Many thanks.
Rob, Dorset, December 2010