Bottom Bracket (BB) shell tapping (for f**ked threads)

tried old bb first actually and i think by trying to re-fit it has damaged the threads. You can see the threads have been freshly worn off, worth getting it chased to see if it works? Ill try getting a pic up

basically the first 5 threads are nearly totally gone

Could just be that some grit or paint or something got in the threads and jammed it up.

When you say the threads are freshly worn off do you mean on the bb cup? These are usually alloy and will get screwed up while the frame remains good. Could try cleaning the threads (I use a soft wire or plastic brush attachment on a Dremel type tool) or just go get them chased. Most (half decent) bike shops should be able to chase bb threads for you, facing and doing anything more than chasing though and you need to look for somewhere with a good workshop.