Well after a bit of a fight, and even after admitting defeat then going back I've gotten the damn thing out!
Pics kinda tell the story...
Big hole in the side of the diff.

Which doesn't look much better close up!

Especially when you can see the few gears that are left inside!
Not to worry though, I've acquired the clutch and various bits, already had a spare gearbox so at least I'm not trashing the environment buying a nice new plastic car, reuse, recycle and all that!