Hi Bruce,
I tired another plug that I had but not a new one, maybe I will go and buy a new one tomorrow and check it out. Incidentally just tonight I stuck a bright nail into the cap and turned the motor again in the dark and noticed a small blue spark if I held it real close to the block. I guess this means the coil maybe ok????

Will try a new plug and report back.

Thanks happy new year to all!
aussie