hello ian
i collect video tapes as hobbie[i.e charity shops]
had a problem with my old video cassete player about a year ago.
went on line to e bay and bought player for about £13 inc remote control /digitial tracking.
the name of the make is FINAI [vhs hq]
hope this helps[i"m not promoting e/bay]
howtomendit.com for free repair help, information and advice.
Try fixfault.com to fix cassette recorders.