Clio 182 steering problem

[Jakey]

Hi guys

Picked up my 182 at the weekend.... really happy with it although the steering seems very stiff and really flicks back when straightening up after a bend to the extent where it's really hard work to steer.... Any ideas......

 

[Jakey]

Have now been told by my mechanic that I have a front shock leaking and need to be replaced? Could this be a cause for problem above? Anyone in the local Romford area with a decent knowledge of 182's who could check it out form me to see if I am moaning about nothing? Remeber the steering on my 197 was amazing!