Arrived safely and was greeted by Mrs C's daughter Mrs B...

Unfortunately the problem could not be solved as easily as I hoped, but not to be defeated I took my trusty hammer and chisel and after what seemed an eternity of chip, chip chip on one side and then the other.... Success! A fully functional garden gate is open and closeable. Ta-da ! Such lovely people and a well appreciated hot cuppa was really appreciated.

Unfortunately I couldn't talk any pictures as the battery in my phone ran down. But a worth while mission. All good.