where is the thermostat?

[dingdongdo]

I will appologise in advance for such a stupid question..
I have an issue where the engine temp stays low even on a motorway run, im going to start in the obvious place and check/replace the thermostat, however despite having changed complete engines and clutches myself when cars where simple and easy to access i dont know where it is.
i have looked at the obvious and followed the top rad hose to the engine but this meets a plastic mounting which looks too small for a thermostat.
can you help?

[Chrispb]

Not a stupid question, follow the bottom hose back to the block its in there.
I do believe it's obscured by the aircon compressor, easier on the mk2

[dingdongdo]

thanks for the info, when you say obscured do you know if its poss to replace with compressor in position?

[Chrispb]

Not done one on mk1, will have a look when I get home if no one else has answered the question.