Hot starting problems are virtually always a sign of lack of fuel pressure. Diesel loses its viscosity when it is hot and, combined with slow cranking speed the effect of leaks becomes noticeable.

Could be a simple air leak allowing air into the fuel system which gradually clears itself when the engine is at idle speed. check fuel filter/housing fit.

Next stop injector seals. If one of the ijector seals is leaking the fuel rail will struggle to build pressure at cranking speed.

Then there's the worn HP fuel pump!!! Hot starting problems can be the first sign of a worn pump. Try the first two first.

Thanks very much - most helpful!

Its quite a time ago but I thought you might be interested in an update. Started with your advice with a new fuel filter - unfortunately this didn't cure the problem and as the problem was subject to a warranty claim the whole matter dragged on but eventually after main dealers diagnostics did not show any fault an upload of the latest software cured my problem. Anyway thanks for your input.

Jon

check your air filter and your fuel filter as i had same problem.

A poorly fitting fuel fitter could indeed let air into the fuel system, but the air filter NEVER gives starting problems. In fact it is rare for an air filter to get clogged enough to give a significant loss of performance, even at high revs. The only dirty thing about air fliters is the lies companies like K & N tell gullible wannabes in order to convince them that the stock air filter is choking the engine.

Thought you might like to know that your advice worked perfectly - upgraded software did the trick! Thanks for your input

Jon