Thank you for the advice.
Living on the Norfolk coast gives me a rather 'unique' climate that runs by its own little rules.
I'm re-covering the plants right now with more composted hay. I am going to give these plants all the protection I can this winter. I'm not delusional and don't expect much results, but it's the fun of it, isn't it? I've had roses blooming on Christmas Day. I probably have a sign on my back saying 'sucker'.