Load noise from Engine (Audi A4 1.8 Petrol)

[Pamboo]

Just thought I would post a problem to see if other have came across a similar case, and for any advice. My engine in the past few weeks has been a lot louder than usual. At first I thought it was just the engine racing, but then realised it was a constant noise that didn't go loader when moving up the gears.

I'm likely to take a look over the engine this weekend and put it in for a check-up, but wondered if anyone on here has any advise or pointers to what it could be?

many thanks