Many thanks to all you kind fellows who have responded with your thoughts, which I have carefully read.

It sound as if many of the leading brands have cut corners these days, to save on costs.

It seems to me that the AA Pro-Elite is a contender and is highly accurate and very well produced, albeit expensive. The HW80 is another contender but perhaps the 2nd hand models are better, before corners were cut in a bid to save costs. And, not least, the Walther LGV. I was doubtful about it because I had read that the spring was placed under pressure, with limited life expectancy, due to the narrow transfer port. However, I gather this was the case for the LGU, not the LGV. The LGV is also well supported here, which is no small achievement! Being down in Sussex, it is difficult to find a shop with a range where all these various models can be tested. I would certainly like to try the LGV.

I think I must have amongst the best of the older air rifles, including the FWB127, Original 45, Webleys Longbow and Omega - with much of the inspiration to purchase these coming from this forum. Anything that can beat that lot must be rather special!