Skoda Octavia electric windows don't operate

Sounds oblivious but have you checked the fuses in the fuse box? Often the windows are on there own loop, might explain why your central locking button still works. For reference to the location please consult your vehicle hand book.

yes check fuses if no joy remove drivers door card and check for any broken wires between door and A post also remove drivers kick panel and check for any bad connections

Thanks for your answers and yes it was a fuse BUT the blown fuse was actually identified in the handbook as "Interior light, central locking" - I only found it by going through every fuse until I found a blown one. Window controls were not listed anywhere in the fuse listing. Let this be a lesson to me and everyone else that these handbooks are sometimes too general for their own good.
Also, for reference, it was my normal garage that suggested replacing the multifunction control unit and had I bought a new one through them or another garage I'd have had to fork out c£330 (pre labour). I did source a second-hand one which will be going back tomorrow so only a few pounds down on that attempt.