Mystery rubbing noise

As per title, 200tdi disco, rubbing noise started about 1k miles ago seems to be around front end of g'box, gradually getting louder. Engine speed related not road speed, most noticeable when under load or over-run, not noticeable when stationary and out of gear, no squeal or rumble when clutch depressed, when underneath on tickover same noise but very slight from around front of box/clutch when clutch pedal is in raised position.

I have spent hours reading the various search results but nothing seems to be quite the same.

Any ideas?? I have to drive around 1500 miles in a weeks time (for a funeral) is it likely to get me there?? I will be carrying a full clutch kit in case I get towed into a garage.

Thanks for looking

Sounds to me like a clutch release bearing.

Thanks for that SteveD, I did suspect clutch bearing hence me ordering the kit, situation now is that I have to use the disco before the garage has a slot for me (I'm too old and decrepid to diy it) apart from loosing drive if it all goes tits up what is the worst that can happen.

I think losing all drive is pretty 'worst'.

Well thanks for the reply, what I mean is if its left while I drive back to the UK and hopefully back to France again is there any chance of a failure damaging the g'box or bell housing. If all its going to do is just fail and leave me without a clutch then I might just buy some ear plugs and take the risk.

It has never damaged anything when its happened to me, Apart from pride..............

I don't think it's the release bearing that's causing the problem. Mine's been noisy when cold for at least two years. Think the problem is more likely to be the clutch itself and maybe the flywheel.

Thanks blackhadder I didn't think it was likely to damage much else just needed a bit of confirmation.
Nigel 1943, yes I had thought the release bearing only made a noise when the pedal was put to the floor cos that's the only time its doing its job, but hey what do I know I only drive it ( to be honest I havn't a clue really)

sounds to me like the input shaft bearing