Thanks for the link on alternatives Hurdity, which Ive just looked at.  I am on Evorel 125mcg (100 & 25 patches)patch  See alternative using gel is "If taking Evorel 100: Oestrogel 4 measures a day (2 am and 2 pm) would give an equivalent" Is that really suggesting I'd need to get up at 2am to apply gel   
 
 
Have just requested my usual 2 month supply. Not sure what I will be able to get.  Fortunately, I have been able to stock up a bit using Independent Pharmacy for Evorel 25, and a couple of friends who manged to get me some Estraderm in Majorca (but was told there is a shortage there too)  and Seville, while on their holidays.
Have also requested Tostran, but have just read thats short now as as well...............