Hi John, I have now cleaned the sensor on 3 occasions with days in between each clean. The fault has disapeared when using the camera on some occasions but sometimes does return so Im not confident about taking it on holiday and being able to use it as and when required. Could you please email me the details on how to do the modification to try and cure the problem? I am already considering purchasing a new camcorder but would like to try repairing this one first. Thanks

Yes Martin, and remember do NOT vary in any way from the instructions, as the sensor will not suffer any damage if you keep strictly to the procedure, but may well do if you dont.