Freelander ignition lock woes

[Tyre Smoke]

My next door neighbour has a 2003 Freelander which has suffered an ignition lock failure. In short, the key will go into the lock but not turn. The immobiliser still works, so as a work around we have removed the ignition barrel from the steering column and turn the switch by hand (removed from the end of the ignition barrel). The key still has to be in proximity to the immobiliser though otherwise no start!

Any ideas of a more permanent and not expensive work around for this?

My thoughts initially were:

a) bypass the immobiliser somehow and fit new barrel and key from a scrapper

b) Secrete key and immobiliser behind dash somewhere and use start and stop buttons on dash

c) something else!

Anyone know how to bypass the immobiliser? This would seem the most logical and easy way around the problem. I would understand if you don't want to post this on a public forum for obvious reasons, so please mail me.

[DanDan1980]

cant u just order a new ignition barrel to key/vin number?? what sort of repair cost do u consider 'expensive'

[Tyre Smoke]

Could do this, but means getting keys re- programmed to immobiliser and all sorts of very expensive sounding stuff from main dealer!

Might be the only option though.