Thank you for taking the trouble to reply. Much appreciated. :thumbsup:
I’ve passed on your advice to my friend along with the number of the mechanic/dealer in Waterford that @Vezelay recommended to me previously.
I’ll update when she’s resolved the problem in case it helps anyone else.
They should be able to sort it but if it is still in her hands try this....
Remove bobbin and its casing.
Thoroughly check for cought thread and fluff.
Spend time cleaning what you can get to.
If its suddenly gone stiff its more likely thats the issue.
At worst it could have taken a bang and damaged a gear wheel but that is looking on the really bad side.
I doubt if it is that.
Then whack a brand new needle in it.
Let us know if this works.
Also ...like said, there may be thread wrapped around the flywheel spindle.
Dont use grease on a spindle use one drop of oil.