S8 Front ceramic brakes removal

[homer simpson]

So today I wanted to remove the front disc due to the shield needing attention. I looked at the service manual and ELSA (same document) and it seems pretty straight forward. However, there is some confusion as to whether the pads need removing or if the caliper carrier can be unbolted and the whole assembly removed.

I decided to play safe and remove the pads first. After some struggling I got the springs off and removed the guide pin bolt. I cannot though for the life of me get the guide pin out. It is not stuck on the pads but seems stuck on the caliper.

Any advice on how to remove this without cutting it off? Audi do a replacement kit with the guide pin, bolt and springs for around £50 which I'd rather not spend on something that should slide out! Thanks