Tailgate issue is easily fixed. The first time my stuck I released it as culzean said then with tailgate open I liberally sprayed light oil into the handle. About once a year, I repeat the oiling. After four years, I have never had any further problems.
My gearbox bearing needed replacing too. I took it to a gearbox specialist who replaced all the seals and bearings, in situ, and I got the car back the following day at a total cost (including VAT) of £324. Two and a half years and 25,000 miles later, it is still smooth and quiet.