Does anyone have a step by step of how to get access to the gear gatior I take it the centre console needs to be removed to get to the bottom on the stick

Darc

 

Centre console doesn't need to be removed.
It can be done without any tools.

Pull the bottom of the stereo/switch surround out by hand, then unlicp the plastic around the edge of the gaitor. You'll then have enought room to fully remove it.
You might have to pop the plastic in front of the handbrake slightly to free it.

 

Best method is to prise up the covers over the two screws under the handbrake cubbyhole lid, and remove the screws, Now lift that end of the handbrake cover and unclip it at the front.
once that's off, prise up clips front and rear of the plastic carrying the gaitor.

If you want the gaitor off, the gearknob has to be unscrewed, it may be tight but unscrews anti-clockwise seen from above.