Cool, thanks for the advice

I cured this using a leaf blower directed at the hinge area. A couple of blasts while folded in then a couple more when folded out. Works a treat and lasts about 7 months between blows
I would say this was an eco solution except for the thick smoke from the blower ...but at least you dont have to mop up afterwards.

I see several posters advocating silicone spray which could be a bad choice if the mechanism bearing surfaces are metal rather than plastic.

If plastic then silicone is an excellent choice if metal the surfaces can / will eventually spall and seize completely as a result of using silicone spray.