But it's only an 02 reg - practically brand new.
Maybe it's the way I've driven it - I am a bit rough I must admit. A bit ramheaded, and I go up an awful lot of kerbs. Could that have done it?
I'd agree with Chuck most likely caused by an oil problem could be running low on oil or it could be not having the oil and filter changed causing poor oil circulation.
You might want to get a second opinion though as it could well be more money than the car's worth
Have you put water in the oil hole by any chance? When a big end goes you can say goodbye to your car and yourself if you are driving at the time. BANG CRASH WALLOP, so get it looked at soon.
big end knocking, chances are your oil pressure has got too low and its taken the shell bearings on the crankshaft, I would look at replacing the shell bearings and praying the knocking hasnt wrecked the crankshaft.
This reminds me of the lady that went into the car spares department looking for a new lid for her engine, she didn't know what it was for but it had 710 written on it, the parts guy went to have a look to see where this 710 part went on the car, he smiled and got the new lid, he showed her the part, she said "see, it has 710 written on the top, he smiled and turned the lid around and showed her again, it spelled OIL.