Just to update anyone who's interested. I took the thermostat out completely and rerouted the hoses to freelander original spec. (Not the stat in top hose) So now the car is just like the original cooling system except there is no stat. Result....... Still overheating. Top of engine and top hose...

Romany tony I have the exact same issue EXACTLY. I have check several other things which may help. I have checked that the old thermostat at the back of the engine has been removed. It has I have flushed the radiator and I honestly don't think it is a blocked rad. My fans do work so I asked...