Thanks TK, will do.

It's the bulging vein I'm really concerned about.
I am desperately hoping it's not going to make using the pump a non starter.

I have finally taken the plunge in finding a solution to my hopefully temporary crisis and started experimenting with my new pump. I had a few practise sessions for a few days, and just wanted to try a loose ring. I used the absolute largest, slackest 'practise ring' and popped him on after pumping....