No i didn't change my username, i used my fsnet.co.uk username, apparently the problem affects this type of username but i don't understand how or why.
Here's the link to the "PPP server down" solution http://blogs.conchango.com/merrickchaffer/archive/2006/11/10/PPP-Server-down-with-Orange-broadband-livebox-modem.aspx
Thanks Stevesa, i will definitely follow your advice regarding the letter to Ofcom and threat to recoup costs to see if it gets me anywhere. It's been 11 days and counting of the PPP Server Down, with ...
@MisterScruff, i'm on the Wokingham exchange so not that far from you. I'm going to try calling Orange again this evening (my 3 days of waiting for an update are up) and i'll let you know how I get on ...