Thinking about this some more I’m still unclear why the u clip failed, why changing gear after renewing the clip didn’t improve.
it seems that something directed you to clutch operation and a seal was renewed.
So, can the movement of the clutch operating linkage be observed and if it less than expected or doesn’t continue to move as the pedal is pressed it points to seal efficiency perhaps. Asking the obvious : is the seal that you replaced the right one, fitted correctly and in the right way around. If all those answers are ok then the questions tend to cast doubt on the cylinder conditions of both master and slave. 
You mention the hose condition. If that is failing obviously that would explain the problem.
if the linkage movement is continuous then it does unfortunately point to release bearing or cover plate issues in my opinion.

There is still the question as to why the u clip became lost. I’m still puzzled by why gear change did not return to normal after renewing that clip.
Did you drive home using 2nd and 4th only after encountering difficulties in Dartmoor?

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