thanks to graham wilkinson for your reply concerning our freelander diesel. i changed the fuel filter as you suggested and the car runs perfect now. i was surprised as i was thinking along the lines of something electronic due to the engine management light coming on. my wife and i were cursing the poor car as well, "bloody freelander gone wrong yet again. its one expense after another!!" it was probably a case of the main dealer charging us £400 for the last service and not changing the filter. many thanks.

Glad i could be of some help and save you some money.
graham