UPDATE!!!

Turns out that brakes had been worked on recently by back-street garage.

When I checked the fluid level it was BONE DRY!!!

It would appear that when said garage had bled the brakes (new nipples) they had failed to top up the reservoir - result? as the pads wore in the fluid level disappeared and no braking.

Moral of this tale? do your own brakes and check basics (fluid level) first - black mark to the owner - ruined reputation for the so-called garage.

Thanks to all who showed an interest.