iPod 120gb won't power up. Genius Bar in Glasgow refused to look at it as it's "obsolete". Are Apple not supporting this model at all now?

So when you plug it in it does respond, but only briefly, is that correct?

Are you sure that the charger and charge cable are working okay? Is there any obvious damage to either of them? Have you tried another cable, and another charging source? If you don't have another cable, can you borrow one?

If you have left it unplugged for a few days, the chances are that the battery is drained down. If the battery has drained down, the iPod will need to be left plugged into power for at least thirty minutes before you see any signs of life from it. Once that happens, you need to allow it to charge up.

If it has power but doesn't react to any button presses, try a Reset. To Reset an iPod, turn the Hold switch on, then off again and then press-and-hold the Menu and Select (centre) buttons for at least ten seconds. The Apple logo should appear and then the iPod will begin its reset.

Apple are supporting the iPod Classic, here. Support has always been through this forum and frankly, it's the better way to solve most issues.

adamfromeast kilbride wrote:

I think I missed out a vital part which was that my wife managed to get it a little wet!

Apple can see an indicator in the headphone jack that confirms water damage and if is water damaged, there's little that Apple can do.

This is the official policy and list of products Apple considers vintage and obsolete, for the purpose of servicing.

Vintage and obsolete products - Apple Support

The Genius Bar should assist if the reason for the visit is trouble-shooting. However, they follow their official policy if servicing (such as repair or replacement) is required.