Ok so the payment from work has now come through, so at some stage this month I should be having the splitters fitted 
Also have now given in my dissertation (phew!) so work should start soon on installing the subs and amp
And for an update: The rear seats have been removed, can't say I've noticed the difference in driving the car though to be honest, but they're only removed in preperation for march seats to be put in on Sunday
Pictures are better than words
Rear seats out:
Current front seats:
The short shifter/gear gaitor issue:
And how it currently looks (no different!):
