Well, how’s about having a red face!! The “chap who might know” did indeed visit and……..removed the film on the battery which then allowed the fob to work as advertised☺️
He also advised that, in respect of the alternative key reading position in the centre storage console - apparently it’s often necessary to try the key in different positions next to the “key” sign. I thought I’d done this when I previously suspected a dud fob battery but he assured me it would work and allow the vehicle to recognise a key regardless of battery power. Have yet to try again!
Finally, has anyone had an issue with an A5 front passenger sun visor? Mine detached itself today my having had it rotated it thru’ 90 deg to screen off the stroboscopic effect of the sun through roadside trees. It seems to have broken off from the hinge point but there seems only to be 2 tiny pins within the hinge point attachment (although these are probably the electrical contacts for the vanity mirror light?). Very disappointing on a 3 yr old car which hasn’t been abused.