Thank you both ladies. I've just come home and quickly tried a few strips of copy paper over the middle of 1  die and it worked after 2 passes. I'm in 2 minds about sending them back so I'll have another little try tonight and decide.
I think it will be a long time before I buy this make of dies again. I just can't be bothered with all the hassle. I know this is the price we pay to get intricate cuts but hey life's too short!
Hope you're feeling better Violafreckles.