Thanks for the help guys.
Sorry about the mixup over box type - when I first ordered my Virgin system the box on offer was the V6. It appears the only way to easily distinguish between the V6 and TV360 is by the type of remote and I do indeed have TV360 remotes. I've been poking around and all the recommendations stuff came in with TV360 so I'm left wondering if I didn't have a fully functional setup until I inadvertently triggered something by using "box sets and movies" for the first time.
Anyway, it looks as if I can't get rid of the banner. I just wish it was something less obtrusive. The fact that it is a show I've tried and dislike (intensely) just adds annoyance.
I'll acknowledge the help even though it didn't tell me what I wanted to hear on the "don't shoot the messenger" principle.