[MikeKL]

Stepping gradually through (Kodi 17.0) build releases from #1205 to #1210 pin-points this issue occurs between #1209 & #1210

So the problem is first seen with build #1210?

Yes, just reinstalled #1210 again and here is debug log with playback issues as previously mentioned and with #1209 here is debug log with no playback issues evident for identical catchup content.
(Note: I selected a different program catchup from that selected for earlier comparison test/debug logs)

Regarding EPG error query, I am using TVHeadend backend and frontened on my PI. Hopefully this re-run of comparison and latest debug logs will help?