As suspected!

Took my poorly tyre for a diagnosis (new 2 months ago!) only to find a stone (I think from the gravel at the front of my house) which would have made a good cutting tool for a cave man had damaged it beyond repair.
I think the shock absorbers are for the customers when they have to pay the bill!
Shut the stable door by sweeping off all the gravel which had gathered on the hardstanding where I park my car.