There is a happy ending to this. I've been driving my black cc for about 5 weeks now, having ordered it thru the local dealer.
I've now got my entire deposit back from Virgin (including the £100 they usually deduct as admin costs!) and also got 30 weeks of interest on the deposit from them as a "good will jesture".
I'll never deal with Virgin cars again but at least I've got all my money back.
And driving round for the last 5 weeks in my fantastic car more than makes up for the extra dosh I had to cough up for going the non - import route!
Thanks everyone for your advice. I'm convinced that the letter to Mr Bransons office ensured I got all my money back! (And they did offer me about 3 alternatives but when you're paying that much for the car, you want the spec you've set your heart on!)
Happy driving,
Julie