Hi, sorry it took so long to get back, quite a busy day.
Okay - the reason I haven't contacted Cris Ellis is because he didn't have a mount for the scope in the first place, when I bought it. Honestly I think he was glad to offload it and yes, perhaps he saw me coming but I made the decision to buy it. He made it clear I would need a mount at some point, perhaps (to my mind) understated what is involved in constructing one, but then again maybe not, everyone except me seems to think it's very easy! If I contact him now demanding that he help me.. I don't know it doesn't seem right, I bought the thing off him, it's not his responsibility to help me.
Anway, the diameter of the scope (ie the outside tube,measured from the outside rim) is 48cm / 18". So.. er, quite a bit bigger than previously stated
I will attach pictures of the scope. Please excuse the bad focus and the mangy hound in the pink jacket.
So.. am I up the creek, or do I have options?? Heres hoping!!
Thanks again everyone I really am grateful for the help and friendliness.