after causing sparks similar to that of an angle grinder (!) I realised that what I thought was (+) was actually (-) started my mx5, left it running for a bit
and then turned the ignition, the noise indicated the motor was turning but not igniting probably (cold damp weather!) so after a bit of persistance with my new found battery power, and a prayer, I gave up
only to find there was the quiet pitter patter of the engine running! woo hoo!
thanks for all the advice guys!
ps any ideas on how to reduce this kind of problem with damp?
