Sorry for bumping the thread, but it would be great to find out the final result. I know that there exist online sources that allow checking the vehicle history by VIN number. My brother bought a used bike not long ago and used one https://www.quickrevs.com.au/. I was surprised how much info he could check this way. As for getting a v5, I've recently read about DVLA's new online service. It allows to apply for a duplicate logbook, so the customers who lost or damaged theirs can receive the new document within a matter of days. I haven't tried myself, but maybe someone else has the experience.
