Thanks for all the replies.
I will take your advice and check it all out again. Got to persuade my son-in-law to let me though, he doesn't want to spend money on it.
I didn't realise that the springs didn't wear out, I presumed that the resistive properties would fail, like on a small spring from a pen. The car does seem to have a lowered look to it, which is why I thought it was the springs more.
Out of interest ... I'm planning on getting my wife a contour/mystique too soon. First thing, beyond required repairs, is going to be new struts/springs. I have the BAT 25mm kit on mine, but she finds this rids way too harsh on our bumpy roads.
Can anyone suggest a combination that has superior 'comfort'. I'm considering stock ... but that's no fun
