UPDATE:
Firstly, thank you to everyone who contributed and offered tips and reassurances. There does seem to be a common thread throughout which is that the car needs to be used regularly and I will just have to suffer some harsh rides to get the mileage under my belt and hope to see some improvement. I will fit some AVO adjustable shocks to the front as a starter and take it from there, although I am looking to improve the ride for comfort rather than track use.
Today I managed to contact my dealer and explain the situation. Phil at Allon Whites , who is just back from furlough, was very understanding and again offered tips to try and improve the situation. With regard to the fuel smell I have examined the filler pipe and sent photos to Phil to study, if need be replacement parts will be sent under warranty and I will fit them as the workshop is still closed. They are being very decent with regard to the warranty, understanding that the car has not moved since purchase. I will post as I progress and maybe it will help others.