That's answered some of the major issues thanks.
It does sound as though it really shouldn't be covered up! l'll have a serious talk to my friend, but my feeling is that as soon as my back is turned, it'll be made pretty again.
There is a SKART connection, but the tv doesn't seem to have a dedicated input on the menu. Odd, since it has the plug, however, I've managed to get the green light on with a remote that is obviously generic. The picture goes fuzzy and a menu appears, but I don't have control of its functions. I may never be able to set it searching for new stations.
Never mind, I hauled my laptop all the way here and should be writing, not watching the goggle box. The main issue was the permanent on-ness and heat . . . and trying to sort any problems in the flat for my old friend.