Yours was Pre-Lexus,old Bean. The people who are talking to us now are not the old guard not what you and me is. They want the best possible spec, for the lowest price and the lowest B.I.K.
But not Allan the O.P. I accept.
My Merc is 18 next month on 247011 miles, still goes to and from Spain each year, still has Nationwide Breakdown Cover, still serviced by an ex Mercman in his VAT REG Business.
Your is 1993 ie. 27 years old and probably not seen an Indie for Servicing since the last appearance of Halley's Comet. You are competent enough to do 99% of things yourself.
I only gave Green Flag as an example as they are one of a number. You are right in your particular case as you could not have obtained Breakdown Cover anywhere given the vehicle`s age and service history.
Hope it all turns out right for you anyway Stu..