Cheers guys! The Knife trick worked! took some time though but I finally managed to get it out after hours of picking. :bang: not the easiest of stereos to remove!
the knife trick is the easiest, just need to remember to use a butter knife so the serated edge dont cut/scrath the sides of the dash. not complicated at all to do, just put your fingers in the tape slot and pull while stabbing the knife in and out.