Alright peeps

I've got an M reg 405 style. Every now and then the gears crunch when I change them. I figured it was time for a cable change then I reasoned that if it was then it would happen all the time.......

Then I found that the clutch pedal wasn't returning properly and that if I hoooked my foot under the pedal and lifted it upwards the gears change beautifully. Pain in the bum when driving though.

I don't get it! Is there an automatic tensioner that could be malfunctioning? coz there's no ratchet sounds when I use it. I'm confused.

Any ideas short of a bungee cord round the pedal would be appreciated.