Went back to the body shop today and spoke to an under manager. The chap that I spoke to yesterday was not there today so couldn't get a definitive answer from them, however in the interest of my safety I went ahead and used the windscreen claim from my insurance. Appointment on Tuesday morning for the one remaining Omega windscreen in this area! Ordering in would add another week and I fly back home on Wednesday.
I really appreciate all the advice given and under different circumstances I would be aggressively pursuing this to make sure I got the right result with no out of pocket expenses.
I feel that I will get my excess refunded by them, as someone said, they don't want/need disgruntled customers badmouthing them especially in a small town where everyone knows everyone, plus I did mention that I would be mentioning them on this and other forums.
They do need to redeem themselves in my eyes (of course) and I hope this will be resolved before I leave.
Watch this space!