I have been working for a recruitment agency for 11.5 months and was dismissed for what was suggessted under performance.  Although I was given no notice no warnings apparantly this is ok as I havent been employed for 12 months in whole.  I have however been one of the most if not only succesful person in my position in the company I was going through a short lull which was turning back around but so to were my longer standing colleagues.  I learnt that the week after I left a new person started on a much much lesser salary than I, My ex manager was and is expecteing a law suit against him as he has gone through this before (word on the grapevine that is) and that he isnt worried and more recently I have had a letter from them telling me that I cant work for another company within a 1000m radius nor contact candidates and clients the latter two I am familiar with but the first restriction stops me gaining employment with anyone in the city centre which is the only place work is.  Can this be allowed and can I do something about any of the other issues mentioned above?  I have a job to start on monday but the employer is willing to wait should I have to abide by the 2 month working restrictiuon in the 1000m radius however if thats the case am I legally allowed to request monies from them as they are restricting me from working until I am in the clear?

Please help....