Running

Can I ask to be referred to a sports injury place? Do such things exist?

Would there be a teaching hospital/University that might be interested in this?

I really don't want to be told to manage the situation by stopping doing what I enjoy- it's not like I want to smoke Meth whilst despoiling virgins.

Yes you can be referred to a specialist sports injury clinic, providing it is part of the NHS. I suggest you research the clinic and the name of the specialist that you want to see and go back to your GP with this information (Your GP will need the name of a doctor, not just the clinic). I suggest too, if your GP is usually reluctant to refer to anywhere other than the local hospital, you supply them with some evidence as to why this specialist can help as opposed to another, so that your GP has no choice. It is your right to be referred.
http://www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/1094.aspx?CategoryID=68&SubCategoryID=153