Thanks guys. It appears the problem (or "feature") was having to re-register the "new" Blackberry via BIS once the unit was operational on the Vodafone network, adding PIN & IMEI etc. Phew.
I did then have a problem with no sound ie ringtones etc on the 9000, but a quick search showed a chap pushing some padding behind a slot above the camera.
You have one very happy camper.
Nick