whining noise with 1st gear and clutch depressed

[Joe_Mk5]

hey everoyne, little concerned with the polo.
i recently noticed that if i put the car into first gear as im slowing down, say from 15 mph with the clutch pressed fully down i can hear a whirling noise. its louder the faster you are. however this noise does not happen when the clutch is up and in use, nor does it happen when pulling away. could this be the gear box? i recently had a mechanic check my clutch and he said it was fine and just needed adjusting, which he did and said there was about 15mm of tread left on the clutch.
the noise doesnt happen when in gear and the clutch is up. nor does it happen if slowing down in any other gear when the clutch is pressed down. any help would be greatly appreciated!
thanks joe

[alexperkins]

Clutch release bearing or a wheel bearing me thinks.

[Joe_Mk5]

ahhh, would i be right in thinking its pretty dangerous to leave?
if i do need it replaced would it be best to get the clutch replaced at the same time?
mr clutch has quoted me 198 for parts and labour (for the whole clutch)
and vw have quoted £168 for parts alone.
would there be any better clutchs cheaper? sachs? i have a 1.4 8v.

im also covered under the aa repair breakdown cover, im not sure if your familiar with it but it states that if you brake down on the road side and the aa mechanic cannot fix it. they will take it to a garage of your choice and pay for up to £500 worth of parts and labour.
would it be best to stick it out untill it seizes completly and claim under the AA?

i know its alot of information but any advice is appreciated

[Tim_GTi]

Definitely your release bearing. the release bearing is part of a clutch kit, so should be replaced as a given