Harry - very very many thanks sir.
Could I ask you to attempt one bid just above the current 9.99 to confirm that at least, You are allowed to bid. Once confirmed, then please carry on with your $50 snipe. And I will cancel mine, just in case the seller resolves his / our / my issue.
As for the VPN thing, I will have to look into that. I just have Broadband via the UK supplier, BT. After that, no idea.
Chaps, many thanks again for your responses and involvement. Sorry to break up your Xmases, hope they are still enjoyable.
Best. Simon.