What is wrong with my N reg Rover 416i?

When pulling away in first gear the car starts to shudder quite badly, this is not down to poor clutch control! This shuddering can be reduced by using extra revs and very very gentle clutch control. There is no shuddering when pulling away in second gear. Can anyone tell me what may be the cause of the shuddering so I can attempt a repair.
Thanks for your time.
Mark