Do I have any rights in this situation?

I would contact Apple customer service and explain the situation. I do know of at least one case where, even though the repair extension had expired, a user successfully argued that he should not be penalized simply because the part in question lasted longer. And elevate as necessary, but politely.

You might take a look at this from this Apple document.

Apple (United Kingdom) - Legal - Apple Products and EU-wide Consumer Laws

* This page has been prepared by Apple and its contents are not endorsed by any third party.

In most EU member states, consumers may only claim for defects that were present on delivery. There are some exceptions, including Czech Republic and Romania. The burden to prove that the defect (including latent defects) existed on delivery generally shifts to the consumer after the expiry of a period of 6 months from date of delivery. Examples of countries where the burden of proof does not shift include Czech Republic, Portugal and Romania. Please contact your local European Consumer Centre for details of the position in your country. During the claim period (see above), consumers may claim, among other things, free repair or replacement where a product does not correspond to the contract. Some EU member states, including Finland, Ireland, UK, Netherlands and Sweden, have a claim period that is longer than 2 years from date of delivery. Please contact your local European Consumer Centre for details of the position in your country.

I'm not sure if by European consumer Centre the Trading Standards people in the UK would have any say but the Sale of Goods Act is civil law and it's your responsibility to enforce it.

Do keep us advised anyway. It may be helpful to others.

>>BUT the guy did mention that under the "Sale Of Goods Act" i should contact the original outlet from where i got my iMac as they should be able >>to help further with the matter.

Good advice from WZZZ & seventy one.

If you have no joy with Apple, the suggestion re SOGA is valid, although it might usually be a stretch to say that a failed drive after 4 years meant that the computer was unfit, or not of reasonable quality. However, if yours was one of those covered by Apple's replacement program, that would probably strengthen your case.

Just in case anyone stumbles across this, your milage may vary. It usually depends how nice you are! 😀

So pleased to read that. We see so many unreasonably strident hits on Apple that when something like this occurs it justifies our faith. Thank you for the star.

Very cool.