Had a hell of a crunch from the starter on Friday and found that the bottom bolt was missing and the starter was loose as hell.
Got a new bolt in there now and re-tightened the top one, she's solid now, but the grinding is still there.
Started her up a few times: 3 times good, 2 times grinding, 2 good, 2 grinding. - all started the car.
On the last try I kept the key in start position and the starter got through 2 grinding episodes, turned normally for a second or 2 and she started up ok.

My question - Is it possible the flywheel was damaged when I lost the starter bottom bolt or is it that the starter is trashed?

Any advice much appreciated.

Rob