In reply to riverz:
I tried an extractor. No joy.
I think my only hope it to pay it to someone with a bench drill to sort it. I'll try to do that at some point, so I have a spare front.
Replacement arrived today. Also ordered me hex bolt head retaining bolts. Copper slip will be applied!
The resin pads have lasted 2 years. I'll do sintered front at some point.. If I can cope with the noise.
Certainly made me think that my choice of summer bike with rim brakes is OK... I'm not looking at carbon rims atm.
I am however looking at a gravel bike for Mrs b (at some point) ... Which would be hydraulic discs...
Thanks all.